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VOLUME XXIX, PART I PRICE FIVE SHILLINGS
195-4
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
Bristol Naturalists’ Society
Epirep BY SCOTT SIMPSON
ASSISTED BY A COMMITTEE
a? mt \
Me
e f
“Rerum cognocere causas.’’—Virgil
PRINTED FOR THE SOCIETY
AT THE BURLEIGH PRESS, BRISTOL
;
Issued August 25th, 1955
we!
ot
All matter for inclusion in the next issue of the Proceedings
should be sent to :-—
Dr. ScoTr Siena
THE UNIVERSITY,
BRIsTOL, 8
NOT LATER THAN FEB. 28.
Other instructions for authors appear on Contents page.
All Books, Pamphlets, Reports of Proceedings sent by way
of exchange, gift or otherwise, and all correspondence relating
thereto and to purchases of the Society’s publications should be
addressed to :—
Hon. LiBRARIAN, BristoL Nat. Soc.,
THe City Museum,
BRIsTOL, 8
Applications for membership of the Society should be addressed
to the Hon Treasurer :—
A. H. Peacu, Esq.,
5 Hansury Roan,
BRISTOL, 8
Enquiries concerning Field Meetings should be made of the
Hon Secretary, Field Committee :—
Miss I. M. Jaco, B.Sc.,
- 51 WestBury Roap,
BRISTOL
All other communications should be addieueda to the Hon.
Secretary :—
C. S. Garren, Esq.
HILLCROFT,
Lone ASHTON,
BRISTOL
The SOCIETY’S LIBRARY in the City Museum is open
to members as under :—
Weekdays - - - - 10.0 a.m. to 6.0 p.m.
Sundays - - - - 2.30 p.m. to 5.0 p.m.
and at other times as announced in monthly circulars.
moO. XIX, PART I, 1954
CONTENTS
PAGE
Council .. 2
New Members .. 3
Report of Council 6
Hon. Librarian’s Report aa oes a as a a a 6
Hon. Treasurer’s Statement of Accounts 7
Report of Botanical Section .. 8
Report of Entomological Section 9
Report of Geological Section he we bs te ee i 10
Report of Ornithological Section .. sus ot a s me 12
Account of the General Meetings .. a as ass Bs Ss 13
Obituary: H. F. Barke oe ze ie. bid at: i ». 16
Sir Lewis L. Fermor .. s 33 we 16
Bristol Botany in 1954, by Cecil I. and N. y. SandWiitt a 17
Ornithological Notes, Bristol District, 1954 by H. H. Dave and P. J
Chadwick .. : 25
Lepidoptera Notes, Bristol ees 1954, a C. H. S. BN s 47
Some Results of Marking Gulls on Steep Holm, by R. H. Poulding .. 49
The Triassic Sandstones of the Bristol Region, by C. Ollier .. : 57
A Review of Past Research on the Lower Palaeozoic Rocks of the Torso
and Eastern Mendip Inliers, by M. L. K. Curtis... i = 7
Poe Ree
INSTRUCTIONS TO AUTHORS
a)
All matter offered for publication in the “‘ PROcEEDINGS’”’ must be sent as
directed on p. 2 of cover of current issue.
To ensure consideration for inclusion in the next issue, contributions must
be received not later than February 28.
All copy must be type-written (preferably double-spaced) or in very clear
manuscript and, in either case, with good margins.
Copy submitted is not returnable and authors are advised to keep a duplicate,
At the discretion of the Hon. Editors, contributors may be required to furnish
short abstracts of their communications, for printing as summaries.
Photos and drawings supplied for illustrations will be returned.
The copyright of all published matter shall be the property of the Society.
whose Council has power to permit reproduction.
Authors shall be entitled to 25 copies of their papers (without covers), free
of charge.
N.B.—AUTHORS ALONE ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE ACCURACY OF THEIR ARTICLES
THE SOCIETY Is A SIGNATORY TO THE Fair CopyinG DECLARATION, DETAILS OF
WHICH MAY BE:‘OBTAINED FROM THE ROYAL SocieTy, BURLINGTON Housg, W.1.
1
COUNCIL
1954
OFFICERS :
PRESIDENT :
J. H. SAVORY
PAST PRESIDENTS :
H. WOMERSLEY, F.R.E.S.,A.L.S. F. S. WALLIS, DSc., Ph.D., F.G.S.
Prof. MACGREGOR SKENE, F. W. EVENS.
D.Sc., F.L.S. Prof. W. F. WHITTARD, D.Sc.,
H. H. DAVIS, F.Z.S., M.B.O.U. Ph.D., F.G.S.
VICE-PRESIDENTS :
Miss M. H. ROGERS, M.A. A. C. LEACH, M.A.
HON. TREASURER :
A. H, PEACH
HON. AUDITOR:
F. W.- EVENS, A.C-A,
HON. SECRETARY :
Cc. S. CARLILE
HON. SECRETARY FIELD COM.:
Miss I. M. JAGO, B.Sc.
HON. LIBRARIAN :
J. H. DAVIE, Ph.D., B.Sc., F.L.S.
HON. EDITOR:
SCOTT SIMPSON, M.A., Dr. rer. nat., F.G.S.
CHAIRMAN FIELD COMMITTEE :
fT. EL PAYNE
OFFICERS OF SECTIONS :
BOTANICAL :
President—Prof. MACGREGOR SKENE, D.Sc., F.L.S.
Hon. Secretary—Mrs. H. H. DAVIS, J.P., Little Stoke Farm, Patchway, nr. Bristol
ENTOMOLOGICAL :
President—N. WATKINS, M.A., F.R.E.S.
Hon. Secretary—C. L. BELL, F.R.E.S., 23 Harcourt Road, Bristol, 6.
GEOLOGICAL :
President—F. STENHOUSE ROSS
Hon. Secretary—I. S. LOUPEKINE, B.Sc., Ph.D., F.G.S., The University, Bristol, 8
ORNITHOLOGICAL :
President—H. H. DAVIS, F.Z.S., M.B.O.U.
Hon. Secretary—P. J. CHADWICK, 6 Goldney Avenue, Clifton, Bristol, 8
OTHER MEMBERS OF COUNCIL :
R. BASSINDALE, M.Sc. H. DUNNICLIFF, M.A.
P. F. BIRD, B.Sc. I. W. EVANS
Cc. H.S. BLATHWAYT, M.A., F.R.E.S. Prof. J. E. HARRIS, M.A., Ph.D.
CG. E. CLOTHIER H. E. HINTON, B.Sc., Ph.D.
F, COLES PHILLIPS, M.A., Ph.D. H. W. TURNER, M.A.
pays
NEW MEMBERS
From Marcu 1, 1954, TO May 1, 1955
A = Associate Member. C = Country Member.
Angles, R. A., A.M.I.Mash.E.,
Ber ROAsand S, .....0... 3 Grove Mansions, Queen’s Road, Weston-
super-Mare, Som.
TRS eel A ee 15 Nibley Road, Shirehampton, Bristol.
Balch, Muss P.M. ........ 580 Wells Road, Knowle, Bristol.
Barefoot, Mrs. V. G. ...... 7 Holland House, South Road, Weston-
super-Mare, Som.
Bennett, Miss A. E., B.Sc. .. 17 Caledonia Place, Clifton, Bristol, 8.
Bewen, Miss A, .......... Tudor Cottage, Redland Hill, Bristol, 6.
Perigiabs ECG fh 73 Bryants Hill, St. George, Bristol, 5.
Bought Mis: FG. ........ Do.
Brooke, irs. By K.-....... ** Ambrea’”’, Staunton Lane, Whitchurch,
Bristol, 4.
@amacne Ke Vig. iss. 5's 668 Portway, Avonmouth, Bristol.
Garlton; Miss L., M.A....... 6 Frederick Place, Bristol, 8.
Challenger, S., B.Sc., F.L.S.,
INTe¢ DLs 1S) oR een Horticultural Science Labors., Leigh Woods,
Bristol, 8.
Challenger, Mirs.S......... Do.
Chatterton, Miss B......... 19 Richmond Terrace, Clifton, Bristol, 8.
Chatterton, Mrs. I. E. ...... 37 Greystone Gardens, Westbury-on-Trym,
Bristol, 9.
Clay, S., M.A., Ph.D. .... Merlin, Cadbury Lane, Clapton-in-Gor-
dano, Bristol.
lay MESS ode wires Scie ee Do.
Clement, Mrs..E..-S. .--..... 2 Effingham Road, St. Andrews, Bristol, 6.
Clements, Miss E. M. ...... 149 Queens Road, Bishopsworth, Bristol, 3.
Collins, Miss M. A. ...... 22 Park Road, Shirehampton, Bristol.
Gookw NMisseS2 5 he ce ne ss g Blenheim Road, Redland, Bristol, 6.
Cowley Geo 33s. es 37 Avon Park, Redfield, Bristol, 5.
Cowls,, Miss Rv eee ns os 37 Cornwallis Crescent, Clifton, Bristol, 8.
Davey. Miss. ID. ........ 16 West Dene, Stoke Bishop, Bristol, 9.
Wawies, Miss Ee so)... ss ss 54 Wellington Walk, Westbury-on-Trym,
Bristol, 9.
Davis Wlisse fe Es cpio es 5c as 40 Churchways Avenue, Bristol, 7.
Dawe WiissG Mot 2... cee School House, Tickenham, Clevedon, Som,
Dennison, V. D., B.Sc.(Econ.) 12 Newlyn Avenue, Bristol, 9.
ivanswron Des (fs. e cvs. 17 Mortimer Road, Filton, Bristol, 7.
Barner, Miss P. E. ........ 44 College Road, Clifton, Bristol, 8.
Flook, Miss DK. ......5..'.. 23 The Park, Kingswood, Bristol.
lhes. (Cals i aaa ara Sidcot School, Winscombe, Som,
AS SS SS
AQ
ps
NEW MEMBERS
GaleoMiss'S NL 2. eee Chew Hill House, Chew Magna, nr. Bristol.
Gayer, Wilssuicy 2o. o ae Rayne Hatch, Leigh Woods, Bristol, 8.
Grandiield Ve js sata 216 Stapleton Road, Bristol, 5
Groves, Miss’@.3) 53.42 eee 21 Bayswater Avenue, Redland, Bristol, 6.
Pl arris sb yey: ast Ape tnenene ae 2 Cecil Avenue, St. George, Bristol, 5.
Parris At Raa os stes oeneeeee Do.
ickamans Mis aE. lee ae 45 Grove Road, Coombe Dingle, Bristol, g.
lickimansy ORE, «os gcetear eels 57 Westbury Road, Westbury-on-Trym,
Bristol, 9.
locke yes Cr Gian, Soh. te ene sche Regina, Station Road, Worle, Weston-
super-Mare, Som.
Teo limes WV A osc cite een sa 4 Hyland Grove, Westbury-on-Trym,
Bristol, 9
lowell VIR ee ea eee 101 Belmont Road, St. Andrews, Bristol, 6
Pilbara en ececce ce ease tae *“Lamorna”’, Easter Compton, nr. Bristol.
ipa berthe Vins. Re. ocr coe Do.
Humphries, Mrs. C. M. .... The Paddocks, Chew Stoke, nr. Bristol.
Jennings, JiEie: jet a ales 37 Avon Park, Redfield, Bristol, 5
Johnson, "Do Abs wae ae 153 Cheltenham Road, Bristol, 6
Hinios Miss Ei. 4 ove freee ees Mayfield, Uplands Road, Saltford, nr.
Bristol
Lawson, Miss J. L., B.Sc..... Y.W.C.A., 15 Berkeley Square, Bristol, 8
Lewis; Muss 4D. cje5 oh. i ok 9g Cornwallis Crescent, Clifton, Bristol, 8
Lillico; Missa}: OW eta. ee Blaise Castle House, Henbury, Bristol
Lippiatt, Miss E. M. ...... Amber-Leigh, Rudgeway, nr. Bristol
Merrie, TD. El gee Inglenook Cottage, Alveston Hill, Thorn-
bury, Glos.
Milward, Mr. M. W. ...... Bonneval, Station Road, Nailsea, Som.
Mosgford, E. Eis Wy. ..b 3A Southfield Road, Westbury-on-Trym,
Bristol, 9
Morgan, El ate ee oe Dodmore Crossing, Westerleigh, nr.
Bristol.
Morris, MrsiiP. Mini... ae 103 Passage Road, Westbury-on-Trym,
Bristol, 9
Mountstevens, Miss E....... 102 Falcondale Road, Westbury-on-Trym,
Bristol, 9
INaylor,; Miss 2X. dase octets Grey Hollow, West Harptree, Bristol
Nelson, Miss J. Min eo. ae. 7 Harcourt Road, Redland, Bristol, 6
Nightingale, K aR gece. oe 20 Hadrian Close, Sea Mills, Bristol, 9
Owen, Eheim 13 Wells Road, Bristol, 4
Rares; W.- U2, Lit=Coln ome cae Crofters, Blagdon, Som.
Bayne.) Virsa) Eee ere 2 ae Merrywood, West Harptree, nr. Bristol
Pearce.. Miss-P: Ga Var Sunny Meads, West Town, nr. Bristol
Poplett,. Miss Fie Tv rest. oi 2 Cotham Road, Bristol, 6
Popplestones ©. a ae 29 Burlington Road, Redland, Bristol, 6
Popplestone, Mrs. C. .,.... Do.
Popplestone, Miss L. J. T. .. Do.
Pitenany Res bo 4c et eect cane 20 Tuffley Road, Westbury-on-Trym,
Bristol, 9
Pryces Ie tne ie ace ee. gate ate 141 Cromwell Road, St. Andrews, Bristol, 6
Quick, Mrs. O. E., B.Sc. .... 129 Stoke Lane, Westbury-on-Trym,
Bristol, 9.
Quick, M. C. Do.
> Opp
NEW MEMBERS 5
TOs vs oes Lo
Rosling, Mrs. H. N.
Saltmarsh, Miss B. I.
pavage, R. J. G., B.Sc., Ph.D.,
Peto EG.S., F:Z.5. ...-
Savory, C. J.
Scadding, Miss M. P. ......
Se? 06. Cea ea ee
Shepherd, Miss J. E.
Silloove ce 0) DN 5 Sa ae ra
Spiers,
A.Mem., A.O.U.
Stowell, Miss J. R.
Stowell, Miss I. BE. «..:....
Taylor, Mrs. S. M.
Templar, P.
Thompson, Miss M. D.
Vance, Mrs. R. D.
\V'2 NCC DS" (a
Vance, Miss M.
Vowles, J. H.
Webb, N. R.
Wilson, Mrs. M. ih
“Withers, Miss K. E. ........
Wostenholm, Miss M.
Yeniumy; Mrs. M., B.A. ......
eoeeee
cee eee eee ew oe
Dek,» M.B:OW}.,
eee ec ee ee
cee ec ee we we ww ew ew ow
oe ee ee ee
8 6 © 8.0 the ee 2 @
see ee ee ee we oe
5 Kenneth Road, Brislington, Bristol, 4
Do.
Red Maids
Bristol, 9
School, Westbury-on-Trym,
Dept. of Geology, University, Bristol, 8
61 Lower Redland Road, Bristol, 6
‘“* Westover ”’, 13 Croomes Hill, Downend,
Bristol
22 Woodleigh Gardens, Whitchurch,
Bristol, 4
54 Wellington Walk, Westbury-on-Trym,
Bristol, 9
Branksome, Beach Road, Kewstoke, Weston-
super-Mare, Som.
The Dower House, Elmore, Glos.
21 Victoria Square, Clifton, Bristol, 8.
Do.
15 Limerick Road, Bristol, 6
18 Howard Avenue, St. George, Bristol, 5
3 Pembroke Vale, Clifton, Bristol, 8.
The Post Office, Nailsea, Som.
Do.
Do.
4 Brymore Close, Wembdon, Bridgwater,
Som.
45 Egerton Road, Bishopston, Bristol, 7
18 Dennyview Road, Abbots Leigh, nr.
Bristol
12 Upper Berkeley Place, Clifton, Bristol, 8
21 Florence Park, Westbury Park, Bristol, 6
Stuart House, Royal Fort, Bristol, 6
St. Audries, 14 Queens Road, Bishopsworth,
Bristol.
2 Lower Hanham Road, Hanham, Bristol.
Stoneleigh, Long Ashton, nr. Bristol.
AFFILIATED SOCIETIES
Bath Natural History Society, 8 Pulteney Street, Bath.
St. Ursula’s High School Natural History Society, Brecon Road, Westbury-
on-Trym, Bristol, 9.
REPORT OF COUNCIL
LM BE
10 Affiliated Societies.
At the Annual General Meeting the officers and members of Council
were duly elected with Mr. Harry Savory as President in place of the retiring
President, Professor W. F. Whittard. Mr. H. W. Turner was elected an Honorary
Member in appreciation of his services to the Society which included editing
the “‘ Proceedings’ for over 19 years.
A programme arranged by. Mr. J. W. Cowie in connection with the visit
of the South Western Naturalists’ Union to Bristol was approved by Council. The
arrangements included a reception given by the Lord Mayor.
It was decided that no General Exhibition should be held in 1954 but that
four General Meetings would be arranged before Christmas.
A formal invitation was extended to the Society of British Entomology in
connection with their proposed Congress in Bristol in 1955.
The Society learned of the award of C.B.E. to Professor C. M. Yonge of
Glasgow University with much satisfaction.
The deaths of Sir Lewis Fermor, a Past President of the Society, Mr. and
Mrs. H. F. Barke and Mr. G. S. Maunder were noted with regret.
C. S. CARLILE, Hon. Secretary
[oe Membership of the Society at the end of the year was 413 including
HON. LIBRARIAN’ S“REPee
Eat
books were borrowed by a wide range of members, and over a wide
range of subjects. Thirteen new books were bought and 11 were
presented. Our thanks have been tendered to the donors. ‘Two new Journals
have been acquired, one German, and one from Australasia. A large number
of loose copies of periodicals have been bound, and a small number of ‘ out of
condition ’ and valuable journals have been rebound. It is hoped that by the
end of 1955 all binding of periodicals will be completed except for the current
numbers. ‘Then the Hon. Librarian will proceed with the replacement of certain
missing numbers of important Journals. We are most grateful to Dr. Wallis
for providing 12 much needed new bookshelves. It is hoped that in 1955 we
shall be able to overhaul the Catalogue. When all this work has been completed
we should have a first class library, and its maintenance should then be a relatively
simple matter.
[) reais” the year 1954 the B.N.S. Library was used extensievly. 327
J. H. DAVIE, Hon. Librarian
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HE meetings arranged for the Autumn and Winter Session were well
attended, but the indoor Spring and Summer meetings have not attracted
many members. The Annual Business Meeting was held in January and
the following officers were elected : President, Prof. Macgregor Skene ; Chairman,
Mr. F. W. Evens ; Hon. Secretary, Mrs. M. L. Davis ; Assistant Hon. Sectetary,
Mr. W. H. Hale ; Committee Members: Miss D. Shaw, Mrs. G. S. Wakefield,
Dr. A. F. Devonshire, Mr. I. W. Evans, with the Chairman and Hon. Secretaries
as members ex officio. After the business part of the meeting Mr. I. W. Evans
described a visit he had made the previous summer to the Forres district of Moray
in company with members of the Botanical Society of the British Isles, exhibiting
some remarkable photographs of some of the rarer plants seen, and herbarium
specimens of others.
At the February meeting Mr. Peter Bell gave his experiences of a Botanical
expedition to the tropics of the New World, illustrating his talk with colour slides.
Mr. C. E. Hubbard was unable to come in March to lecture on the structure
and classification of British grasses, and Mr. I. W. Evans brought a comprehensive
collection of British and Alien species from his Herbarium and described the
construction of the different families. To conclude the meeting the Secretary
showed some colour transparencies of Alpine plants. The October meeting
consisted of a series of short Papers by members of the Section :—
Miss D. Shaw—A walk from Clevedon to Portishead.
Mrs. D. Bunce—Pollen loads of the honey bee (a brief description of the book
by D. Hodges).
Dr. A. F. Devonshire—A holiday at Perth.
Mr. C. H. Cummins—Some plants of S. Cornwall.
Mr. I. W. Evans—A description of some interesting local plants, and others,
from his Herbarium.
The talk arranged for November was cancelled by the proposed speaker and
the Section was indebted to Mr. I. W. Evans for coming forward at short notice
on a second occasion to fill the gap, this time with some Botanical Recollections. .
At the last meeting of the year the Forestry Commission film—The Culbin
Story—was shown, followed by a documentary film concerning the New Forest.
During the spring and summer a number of field walks were arranged and
led by members as follows :—
April—Whitchurch to Keynsham and Compton Dando. Mr. I. W. Evans.
May—Bath and Bathford. Mr. I. W. Evans.
June—Churchill and Lower Mendip. Mr. W. H. Hale.
July—Alveston to Tockington. Mrs. G. S. Wakefield.
35 —Hanham and R. Avon. Mr. I. W. Evans.
Aug.—Clevedon to Portishead. Miss D. Shaw.
Sept.—Lansdown, nr. Bath. Dr. A. F. Devonshire.
The University Botanic Garden was visited during the summer, also the
gardens at the Royal Fort.
The Section has agreed to help the Botanical Society of the British Isles
in their task of compiling distribution maps of the British Flora. Dr. A. F.
Devonshire is in charge of this work for the section.
We regret to report the death of Major J. G. MacGeorge, who, until recently,
was a member of our section and a keen recorder of plants.
M. L. DAVIS, Hon. Secretary
T
ENTOMOLOGICA
REPOR OF
be LG FON
Lg) 4
HE goth Annual General Meeting of the Section was held on January 4,
Mr. N. A. Watkins, M.A., F.R.E.S., was elected President, and Mr. C. L.
Bell, F.R.E.S., Secretary. Mr. A. H. Peach and Mr. C. S. H. Blathwayt,
M.A., F.R.E.S., the retiring President and Secretary, did not stand for re-election
The retiring President then gave a most interesting talk on “‘ Reminiscences of
40 years collecting’ and a discussion followed.
Apart from the above Meeting 4 ordinary meetings were held during the year
as follows :
hep. I.
Mar. 2
Oct: 5.
INov.., 1.
the year.
Mr. R. Henderson: ‘‘ Mimicry in exotic butterflies.”
Dr, FS. Wallis, PhD:, D.Sc:, F.G.S.: “‘ Insects of early ages.”
Short talks by members on the year’s collecting.
Several members exhibited interesting specimens caught during
The following notes have been supplied by Mr. I. R. P. Heslop
on his exhibit at this meeting.
I.
Apatura iris. Linn (Purple Emperor)
Specimens all taken in 1954 as follows :—
Male bred on July to from a larva collected by the exhibitor
in Sussex on May 17.
Male caught by the exhibitor in Wilts on July 22. This specimen
came in at the window of exhibitor’s car and was secured with
a killing bottle.
Male caught by exhibitor in Wilts July 22.
Male caught by Mrs. E. A. Heslop in Wilts July 27.
Four cards illustrating the life history of the bred specimen.
The horns of the larva were remarkably asymmetrical, as
could be seen from the preserved cast larval skin mounted
on one of the cards.
. Limenitis camilla Linn. (White Admiral)
An extreme example of ab nigrina Weym, caught by Mrs. E. A.
Heslop in Somerset July 4, 1925.
Aphantopus hyperanthus Linn. (Common Ringlet)
An ab. lanceolata Shipp, caught by exhibitor in Wilts on August
16, 1954.
Thecla betulae Linn. (Brown Hairstreak)
Two sets of six specimens (three male and three female) bred by
the exhibitor. One set from Somerset (1954) and the other from
Huntingdonshire (1927). The specimens selected from long series
from each county showed the range of variation in size and
colouration.
The size of the Somerset specimens range from three to four milli-
metres more than that of the Hunts ones in the male and
from five to six millimetres more in the female. Both series re-
presented were reared on Plum.
CECIL L. BELL, Hon. Secretary
10
Officers were elected : Mr. H. Homeshaw, President ; Dr. F. Coles Phillips,
Vice-President ; Dr. I. S. Loupekine, Hon. Secretary ; Dr. D. T. Donovan,
Recorder. Mr. T. R. Fry, Dr. A. Marsden, Mrs. M. M. Perkins, Mr. F.
Stenhouse Ross, Mr. H. S. Shinner, Dr. Scott Simpson, Dr. Stanley Smith,
Mr. H. W. Turner, Mrs. G. S. Wakefield, Dr. F. S. Wallis and Professor W. F.
Whittard were appointed Committee Members. The formal business was
followed by an Exhibition of Members’ collections and displays contributed
by the City Museum and the University which was held at the City Museum
ey kind permission of the Director). The more notable exhibits were as
ollows :—
City Museum: Selected ammonites from the Tutcher Collection.
Geology Department: X-ray radiography of fossils.
Geological Section (arranged by Mr. F. J. Holwill) : Minerals, rocks and
fossils collected at the Summer Field Meetings, 1953.
Geological Section: Fossils, books and photographs from Miss Theodora
Shaw’s Collection.
Mr. F. S. Clements : Recent temporary exposure of Middle Lias at Dundry.
Mr. E. H. Day: Pyrite vein in coal from Radstock.
Mr. B. Frost: Fossils and minerals.
Mr. T. R. Fry: Fossils from the Avonian of the Bristol District.
Mr. R. Goldring : Geological maps of N. Devon and W. Somerset.
Mr. H. Homeshaw: Pre-Cambrian rocks from North Wales.
Dr. I. S. Loupekine : Specimens and photographs illustrating the desert
phenomena of (i) Western Sahara, Algeria, (ii) Libyan and Western
Deserts, Egypt (collected 1952).
Dr. F. Coles Phillips : Rocks collected in Australia, 1953 (including uranium
ore from Radium Hill under test by radioactivity detector set up by
Mr. I. H. Ford).
Mr. F. Stenhouse Ross: Ammonites from the Lower and Upper Jurassic,
first collected in 1936.
Mrs. G. S. Wakefield : Minerals from the Trelease Collection.
Mr. A. G. Wright: Glacial erratics and Norwich Crag specimens from
Norfolk.
Ac the Annual Business Meeting, which was held on January 19, the following
On February 18 Dr. D. T. Donovan gave an illustrated account of “A
Geological Journey to Italy”, in which he described the expedition which took
place in July-August, 1954, with the purpose of collecting fossils from the Lias
formation in order to effect a comparison with North European developments.
On March 16 Mr. R. D. Russell (National Agricultural Advisory Service)
introduced an entertaining coloured sound-film entitled ‘‘ The Formation of
Soils”? and, by means of Kodachrome transparencies, gave a general account
of soils with special reference to the geological formations of the West of England.
Six field-meetings were held during the Summer. On April 14 the Section
visited the Harry Stoke Coal Mine under the guidance of the Manager, Mr.
GEOLOGICAL SECTION 11
W. D. Lytham. On May 8 a day was spent on the Malvern Hills where
Pre-Cambrian and Lower Palaeozoic rocks were examined under the leadership
of Professor W. F. Whittard. On June 9 Mr. T. R. Fry led an evening excursion
to Dyrham and Horton where collecting was carried out from the Inferior Oolite
and Fuller’s Earth formations. On July 10 the Section visited the Bratton and
Westbury districts, Wilts., where, under the guidance of Mr. H. W. Turner, Upper
_ Jurassic and Cretaceous formations were seen. On August II an evening meeting
was held on Messrs. Lewis’ site in the Horsfair where excavations in the Trias
were inspected and the engineering problems kindly explained by members of
the City Engineer’s Department. Finally, on September 11 a joint meeting with
the University of Bristol Tutorial Class in Geology took place when Dr. F. S.
Wallis guided a coach party to examine the old manganese and iron workings at
Higher Pitts Farm, the geology and scenery of Ebbor Rocks and the cave at
Wookey Hole.
On October 21 Mr. S. W. F. Patching (Atomic Energy Research Establish-
ment) delivered a lecture on ‘‘ Geology and Nuclear Energy ”’ in which he re-
viewed the applications of atomic power to industrial and civilian purposes
and described the occurrence of uranium-bearing deposits, the prospecting
methods that are used in their discovery and the subsequent treatment and
handling of the ores.
On November 16 Dr. F. Coles Phillips gave an illustrated account of “A
Geological Tour of Australia’? in which he described some of the more striking
geological features of the Continent which he visited in 1953 at the invitation
of the Australian universities.
It is with the deepest regret that the Section records the deaths of the
President, Mr. H. Homeshaw, and of Mr. H. F. Barke, Mrs. E. W. Barke, Mr.
B. F. Brueton, Sir Lewis Fermor, Mr. G. S. Maunder and Mr. E. L. Smith.
I. S. LOUPEKINE, Aon. Secretary
12
SECTION
T the 31st Annual Business Meeting on January 22
Mr. H. H. Davis, the Hon. Secretary since 1937,
was elected President in succession to Mr. A. C.
Cae: Leach who had completed his full term of office ;
A Mr. P. J. Chadwick was elected Hon. Secretary, Mr.
G. E. Clothier Assistant Hon. Secretary, and Mrs. J.
Lance and Mr. P. F. Bird were elected to serve on the
General Committee. At a subsequent meeting Mrs.
| M. Taylor and Mr. B. King were co-opted.
DF RCAVREN IE Saesine ter tt Seven other meetings, listed below, were held
THE wREN Tf, Aut siRos."_ = during the winter and autumn months and were well
supported, the average attendance being 93.
Feb. 17. Mr. W. Higham: Birds of the Scottish Highlands.
Mar. 19. Mr. P. E. Brown: The breeding cycle of the Marsh Warbler.
Apr. 2. Summer Field-programme Meeting.
Sept. 29. Exhibits and communications by Members.
Oct. 22. Mr. H. Savory: The art of George E. Lodge—sportsman and
naturalist.
Nov. 17. Dr. N. Tinbergen: Field studies of the behaviour of Gulls.
Dec. 10. Mr. R. M. Lockley: Gannets, Puffins and Atlantic Seals.
Field work organised by the Committee was also well supported and included
sample Buzzard Surveys in South Gloucestershire and North Somerset, a Wood
Warbler Distribution Enquiry covering 55 sq. miles of South-West Gloucestershire,
a census of Heronries and the compilation of Roost and Nest Record cards (278)
on behalf of the British Trust for Ornithology, and Diurnal Migration Watches
in October and November in conjunction with the Mid-Somerset Naturalists’
and Dursley and District Bird Watching and Preservation Societies on behalf
of the British Naturalists’ Association.
Other activities carried out by members included the ringing of 2,362 birds,
and 20 members assisted with the duck counting programme arranged by Mr.
King, the regional organiser for Somerset, as part of the International Wildfowl
Enquir
i Three evening field-walks were arranged: two on May 13 at Saltford
and Leigh Woods were attended by 25 and 30 members respecttively, but at the
third on May 28 over Barrow Hill and Bourton Combe, the attendance was
adversely affected by inclement weather and only 6 members participated.
Twenty-one members took part in an all-day excursion on May 16 to Stanway
in the N. Cotswolds, where the party was met and taken on a conducted tour
by the Hon. Guy Charteris.
The membership at the close of the year totalled 145.
P. J. CHADWICK, Hon. Secretary
13
ACCOUNT OF THE
GENERAL MEETINGS
oO) Sy:
HE gist Annual General Meeting was held on January 14th, when the
election of Officers and Council for the ensuing year took place. The
retiring President, Professor W. F. Whittard, gave his Presidential address
entitled ‘‘ Rare Fossils”’, during the course of which many slides were shown.
The process of fossilisation was explained and it was pointed out that under
certain conditions even the soft parts of animals have persisted as carbonaceous
films. The origin of these and other unusual fossils was explained. At this
Meeting Mr. Harry Savory was unanimously elected as President.
At the General Meeting on February 4th, Dr. H. W. Miles, Professor of
Entomology at Wye College, gave a talk of much local interest on “‘ Some Insects
of a Somerset Garden ”’, during which attention was drawn to the effect of
climate and vegetation on insect life.
During October two General Meetings were held, as it had been decided
that there should be no Exhibition. The first of these meetings was held on
October 7th when Mr. K. Brown, the Fishery Officer of the Bristol Water Works
Company, introduced his film, “‘ Blagdon Trout’, and Mr. K. Roberts, the
Resident Engineer of the Chew Valley Lake, gave a talk on the history of its
development. The second October General Meeting, held on the 28th, was the
occasion of the visit of Dr. A. T. Dollar of Birkbeck College, London, who gave
an illustrated lecture on Lundy in which he dealt with the Geological,
Archaeological and Historical aspects of the island.
On November 18th at the General Meeting the speaker was Professor R,
Milnes Walker, whose interesting talk, ““Mammals and Birds of East Africa’’.
was illustrated by two excellent films and slides in colour.
At the last General Meeting of the Year on December gth, the visiting
lecturer was Mr. Peter Scott who introduced his film ‘‘ The High Andes ’’, which
dealt with bird life on Lake Titicaca and a tributary of the Amazon. Mr. Scott
commented on the journey which he had made and the rare birds he had seen,
especially the beautiful Torrent Duck in Bolivia. The lecturer contributed still
further to the success of the Meeting by his remarkable sketches.
Throughout the year, the attendance at General Meetings ranged from 22
to 265 with an average of 89. General Field Meetings were held during the
Summer.
C. S. GARLILE, Hon. Secretary
14 GENERAL MEETINGS
FIELD MEETINGS
Date District Leaders
24 April Hillesley, Hawkesbury and Horton Dr. A. F. Devonshire
22 May A Mendip Tour Mr. T. H. Payne
19 June Sand Bay and Goblin Combe Mrs. R. Millard ai
Miss B. Cooper
Mrs. M. M. Perkins
17 July Brean Down Mr. Ivor Evans
7 August Vale of Pewsey Mr. R. S. Barrow
Mr. Goldstraw
Mr. Ivor Evans
4 Sept. Steep Holm Miss M. E. Habgood
also
Iron Acton, Tortworth and Damery Dr, M. L. K. Curtis
In April a visit was made to localities in the adjacent parishes of Hawkesbury
and Horton on the Cotswold escarpment. In the afternoon, members walked
from Starveall to Kilcot Woods, and thence to the tumulus known as Nan Tow’s
Tump. Later the Church at Hawkesbury and an Iron Age Camp at Horton
were inspected. The most interesting plants seen were Helleborus viridis, growing
abundantly at Kilcot, Draba muralis by Hawkesbury church and Trachystemon
orientale at Horton.
The May meeting was a whole day spent in the Mendips. On the outward
journey members went to see Compton Martin church, the history of which
was told in a short talk by the Rev. A. Stevens. Then followed a walk through
Ubley woods to Nordrach. Paris quadrifolia and Listera ovata were found as well
as many other interesting botanical specimens. At Priddy the swallet known
as St. Swildon’s hole was seen and an exposure of Millstone Grit examined where
the Ebbor road was being widened. Next the Fairy quarries and Edford wood —
were explored. Members heard the woodlark and night jars and found large
beds of Geum rivale, also specimens of Ranunculus lingua, Aconitum napellus, Polygonatum
multiflorum and Mimulus guttatus.
The June meeting was held at Sandpoint and in the evening there was a
walk through Goblin Combe. Among’ the birds seen were oyster catchers,
shelduck, a raven, a kestrel, wheatears and rock pipits. The most interesting
plants found were Trinia glauca, Onopordon acanthium, Cynoglossum officinale, Rucus
aculeatus. Geologists visited the raised beach and examined the outcrop of
volcanic rock which occurs there. A further outcrop was examined at Goblin
Combe.
In July, all arrangements were made for an expedition to Steep Holm,
which unfortunately had to be cancelled owing to bad weather and.members
went to Brean Down instead. Sea coast flora was examined and amongst other
plants, the rare grass Kocleria vallesiana and the local milk thistle, Cardus marianus,
were found.
A whole day joint Field meeting with about 30 members of the Bath Natural
History Society was held on August 7th. In the morning the Bristol Naturalists
went to Polechurch Common and studied aquatic plant associations. A large
patch of the small Fleabane, Jnula pulicaria, was seen.
The two parties from each Society met at Seend, five miles west of Devizes,
GENERAL MEETINGS 15
on a hill rising to 400 feet on an outlier of Lower Greensand which rests on Jurassic
Kimmeridge clay and Corallian. An old quarry in the Corallian was inspected
before lunch and afterwards the two coaches made their way across the wide
end of Pewsey Vale. As it was rzining heavily a visit to Edington Church was
made and later Salisbury plain was crossed at Tinhead. After looking at a
large exposure of Upper Greensand, a suitable place was chosen in which to study
chalk flora. Here among other plants of interest, Thesium humifusum was seen.
Then followed a walk to a view point of Pewsey Vale where Mr. Barron pointed
out all the geological features of the landscape.
In September two separate meetings were held on the same day ; one on
Steep Holm and one to the Tortworth area. Birds seen on the island that day
were robin, hedge sparrow, wren, blackbird, song thrush, cormorant, swallow,
house marten, wheatear, peregrine, kestrel, rock pipit, willow warbler, grey
wagtail, whitethroat, berring gull, lesser black-backed gull, great black-backed
gull, curlew and raven. Plants recorded by the Botanists were Lycopsis arvensis,
Hyoscyamus niger, Anagallis arvensis, Calamintha officinalis. Meanwhile those who went
with Dr. Curtis examined quartz-coglomerates belonging to the Upper Old Red
Sandstone at Brook Farm near Falfield. After tea members went via Woodford
to Damery ; here they saw basaltic lavas of the Silurian age in the large Damery
quarry and collected fossils from the Llandovery sandstones near Damery Bridge.
Then a visit to Tortworth Park was made and the trees in Tortworth Court
studied. Finally came a walk along the lakeside to Cromhall noting exposures
in Chrboniferous limestone on the way.
I. M. JAGO, Hon. Field Secretary
16 het
OBITUARIES
H. F. BAarKkeE
ERBERT Frederick Barke died suddenly in Bristol on March
31, 1954, at the age of 76. By profession a chemist he was
a Fellow of the Institute of Chemistry and served with the firm
of Messrs. Cook and Barke in Bristol and Bath as a public analyst
from about 1925 to his retirement in 1951.
He was elected to the Society in 1907 and was a keen and active
member. Shunning publicity he served mainly as a committee
member and was on Council in the years 1914-1918, 1922-1923,
1933-1942. He led numerous excursions, often in collaboration
with Mrs. Barke. In the field he worked with many noted Bristol
geologists such as Arthur Vaughan, S. H. Reynolds and J. W.
Tutcher, who in their many published works gave well-deserved
praise to his careful and detailed collecting. Barke was one of
the earlier school of naturalists who rather avoiding specialisation
loved and understood the whole countryside and few matters of
natural history escaped his keen powers of observation. It was a
joy to accompany him in the field. An apparently rather brusque
manner really belied his intense kindness and loyalty to his friends.
Sir Lewis L. FERmMor, O.B.E., D.Sc., F.R.S.
T was a very fortunate event for our Society when, on account
of Lady Fermor’s connections with the West Country, Sir
Lewis and Lady Fermor came to live in Bristol at the outbreak
of the war. He was a most distinguished geologist who had held
the post of Director of the Geological Survey of India from 1922
till his retirement in 1935. After his retirement he went on an
important mission to Malaya to report on its tin industry in 1938,
and between 1945 and 1947 he took part in other missions to
India, Egypt and Rhodesia.
Sir Lewis joined our Society in 1940 and was an active member —
of the Geological Section throughout his stay in Bristol, serving
on the committee of the Section from 1941 till 1952. He was a
member of Council from 1942 to 1947 and was President from
1945 to 1947. His lectures on India’s mineral resources and on
Gondwanaland are well remembered as well as his two Presidential
Addresses on India and Rhodesia.
All who worked with Sir Lewis in the running of our Society
will recall his keen interest in all its affairs and his ready devotion
of his time and attention to its problems. When in 1953 he left
Bristol for his new home in Surrey his distinguished figure and
unassuming personality were missed. He died in Woking on
May 24, 1954, at the age of 74.
The Society’s sincere sympathy is extended to Lady Fermor
in her loss.
17
Piolo TOL BOTANY IN 1954
By Crat I. anp N. Y. SANDWITH
(Read in title to Council, May 5, 1955. Received Feb. 10, 1955.)
INCE the last meeting in Bristol of the British Association in
S 1930 we have passed through a period of transition in the
study of the British flora, accompanied by changes in the flora
itself and in the face of our countryside. These changes have
been active in our district. Mr. J. W. White, who had fathered
the Bristol flora for so many years, died in October, 1932, and
after a gap of a few years (during which Miss I. M. Roper also
died, after presenting her herbarium to Leeds University) we tried
to carry on his work of recording with these annual notes and
have prepared a card index of all records published since 1g1g2.
In the meantime, the Flora of Gloucestershire (1948) and the new
Flora of the British Isles (1952) have appeared, and the Distribution
Maps scheme for plotting the occurrence of all the higher plants
has been sponsored by the Botanical Society of the British Isles
and deserves the support of local workers. Vast changes have
taken place in the nomenclature of our species and, more important,
a number of critical plants which were unknown in Mr. White’s
day have become properly understood, while the stock of others
has fallen. The Mveracium and Rubus lists will have to be revised
when the time is ripe, and a supplement to the Adventive Flora
of the Port of Bristol (1933) might well be issued since so many
‘species have been added.
Since 1930 there have been remarkable discoveries of native
plants new to the Bristol district, the most interesting being Potertum
officinale, Gentiana anglica, Centaurium capitatum, Salix undulata,
Epipactis purpurata, E. leptochila, Potamogeton trichoides, Kannichellia
gibberosa, Carex laevigata, Parapholis incurva, Poa subcaerulea, Glyceria
declinata and Equisetum lttorale. Polygala calcarea and Prunella
laciniata have been added to the Gloucestershire, and Carex vesicaria
to the Somerset, side of the area, while Callitriche truncata has been
rediscovered. Mr. A. J. Wilmott distinguished the Sorbus latifolia
of the Avon Gorge as a new endemic species of hybrid origin
and named it S. bristoliensis, the first flowering plant to commemorate
our city. Introductions such as Epilobium adenocaulon and Impatiens
capensis have arrived and extended their range while others, such
as Erigeron canadensis, Senecio squalidus and Lactuca serriola, are in-
creasing. ‘Total losses are few, but we fear that Andromeda may
have gone for ever, and Euphorbia pilosa at Bath and Dianthus
B
18 CECIL I. AND N. Y. SANDWITH
deltoides at Keynsham have not (we believe) been seen for many
years. ‘The records of four species, Callitriche palustris, Hypochoeris
glabra, Orobanche Picridis and Rhinanthus major, were probably all
based on misidentifications ; on the other hand, the occurrence
of Aceras has been established.
A number of new Hepatics have been discovered on the Somerset
side, the best being the saprophytic Cryptothallus mirabilis, which
is now known in two widely separated areas on the peat moors.
Dr. Lilian Hawker’s admirable monographic study of the British
Hypogeous Fungi (truffles), published in the Philosophical
Transactions of the Royal Society in February, 1954, was based
on her own collections in the woods of our district where she and
her fellow-workers discovered a species new to science and made
several first records for Britain. Mention must also be made of
Dr. T. A. Sprague’s list of the Rust Fungi of Gloucestershire,
which has just been published in the Proceedings of the Cotteswold
Naturalists’ Field Club.
Mr. White would have welcomed all these discoveries and re-
searches, as well as the advances made in the study and accurate
determination of British plants. He would have accepted the
name-changes (apart from ill-advised splitting of genera) with
philosophic chuckles, but would have been saddened by the
defacing of so much of the countryside and the submergence of
so many happy hunting-grounds in the “‘ overspill ’’ of Bristol.
The year 1954 was disastrous and cannot be enlarged upon.
After a dry April there was little sun and continuous rain, cold
winds, gales, blizzards and floods. People ask if our climate is
changing, a question to which there is no satisfactory answer.
Once again, we have to thank Messrs. C. E. Hubbard and E.
Nelmes for determining Grasses and Sedges, while Dr. C. West
and Mr. E. P. Sell kindly named a number of Mieracia and Mr.
G. M. Ash some Epilobia. Mr. V. S. Summerhayes spent two days
here in August, examining the species of Hpipactis in the woods at
Wickwar, Wotton-under-Edge and Dursley. On one of these,
a perfect summer day, the party was conducted by Mr. E. P.
Bury, who most kindly showed us several interesting colonies of
the orchids, including the beautiful colour form which is mentioned
below.
As in past years we have abbreviated as “‘ G.W.G.” the name
of Mr. G. W. Garlick, who continues to send us many valuable
records from the Gloucestershire side of the district.
Ranunculus hederaceus L. Lyde Green, and Dodington Park, G.,
G.W.G.
Barbarea intermedia Bor. Engine Common, Yate, G., G.W.G.
BRISTOL BOTANY IN 1954. 19
Diplotaxis tenuifolia (L.) DC. Cogmill Quarry, Iron Acton ; and
(var. integrifolia Koch) Cattybrook Brickworks, Shortwood,
G., G.W.G.
Sisymbrium officinale (L.) Scop. var. letocarpum DC. Yate and Iron
Acton, G., G.W.G.
Viola hirta L. ssp. calcarea (Greg.) E. F. Warburg. Loxton Hill,
S., C. H. Cummins.
Polygala calcarea F. Schultz. ‘Two small colonies in calcareous
pasture N. E. of Hawkesbury Upton, G., G.W.G. An
excellent find, new to the Gloucestershire side of our area
and to district 5 of Fl. Glos.
Saponaria officinalis L. Edge of Sodbury Quarry, G., a garden
escape, G.W.G.
Sagina ciliata Fr. Parkfield Colliery, Pucklechurch, G., G.W.G.
Hypericum dubium Leers. Wood-borders on Stinchcombe Hill, G.,
NOS.
Rubus laciniatus (Weston) Willd. Summit of Blackdown on Mendip,
S., Dr. David Prowse. ‘This is evidently the ‘‘ American
Blackberry well established on the summit ridge of Blackdown
on the Mendips”’ reported by Ff. R. Browning in Rep. Bot. Sect.
Som. Arch. and Nat. Mist. Soc. for 1950. RR. laciniatus is a garden
escape, but not American in origin.
Cotoneaster microphyllus Lindl. Summit of Stinchcombe Hill, G.,
NYS.
Sedum Telephium L. Railway embankment south of Yate Station,
G., G.W.G.
Callitriche obtusangula Le Gall. Pond, Totteroak, Horton, G.,
G.W.G. Pool below Stone-edge Batch, Tickenham, S., 1934,
CLS.
C’. intermedia G. F. Hoffm. Pool by the Mells brook,’ Stoke Lane
Valley, Edford, 1941 ; and pond on Beacon Hill, S., 1953,
Ces. and JVt.S.
Epilobium montanum L. xX roseum Schreb. Wall, Bowling Hill,
podbury, G., G.W.G., det. G. M. Ash.
i. adenocaulon Hausskn. Several localities at Winterbourne,
Dodington Park, Yate, Sodbury, Horton and Lower Woods,
G., G.W.G. Woods above Wotton-under-Edge and on
Breakheart Hill, Dursley, G., N.YV.S.
Cinanthe Lachenali C.C. Gmel. Lyde Green, G., G.W.G.
Anthemis nobilis L. Still in very small quantity on Siston Common,
G., C.I.S. First found here by AH. 7. Gibbons, see “ Bristol
Botany in 1926.” This important record was somehow
20 CECIL I. AND N. Y. SANDWITH
omitted from Fl. Glos. Said to be introduced here, but the |
plant looks wild enough on this typical goose-green.
Anaphalis margaritacea (L.) Benth et Hook. fil. In five distinct spots
in Westridge Wood, Wotton-under-Edge, 1952, and subse-
quently ; and in Priest Wood, Cromhall, G., EF. P. Bury.
Doronicum Pardalianches L. Quarry under Tytherington Hill, G.,
G.W.G.
Picris hieracioides L. Railway cutting between Nibley and Iron
Acton, G., G.W.G.
Crepis bienns L. For several yards by the road from Wick to
Pucklechurch, G., J. W. Evans.
Feracium anglorum (Ley) Pugsl. Westerleigh, Engine Common,
Yate Court and Chipping Sodbury, G., G.W.G., det. C. West
and P. D. Sell. Much of what Mr. White reteured to A,
sciaphilum var. transiens (also the Rodway Hill “‘ H. diaphan-
oides ’’) comes under this species, which has smaller heads with
less floccose phyllaries than the common H. Lachenalit.
Sonchus arvensis L. var. glabrescens Guenth., Grab. et Wimm. Waste
ground by the Ridge Estate, Yate, G., G.W.G.
Monotropa Hypopithys L. Under beeches in Dodington Park, G.,
G.W.G.
Gentiana Amarella L. Many plants with some or all of the flowers
converted into dense little tufts of pale greenish purple or
purple leafy organs were found by us last September on old
mining ground at Charterhouse-on-Mendip, §S. More than
a century ago, in the Gardener’s Chronicle for 1843, p. 628,
Charles Darwin described very similar specimens which he had
found on a bare, dry, chalky bank (the locality was not
stated).
Mentha alopecuroides Hull. Disused allotment near Westerleigh |
North Signal Box, G., G.W.G. A first record for the Glos.
side Of the district:
Stachys X ambigua Sm. Hedgerow, Westerleigh Road, Yate, G.,
G.W.G.
S. sylvatica L. forma monstrosa Druce. Hedgerow, Frampton
Cotterell, G., G.W.G. Roadside between Butcombe and
Nempnett Thrubwell, S., 1953-1954, Miss M. V. Westcott.
Galeopsis angustifolia Ehrh. Dwarf plants on scree in Goblin Combe,
Cleeve Ss OC. . Cummins.
Salix triandra L. Bank of River Frome under Bury Hill, Winter-
bourne Down, G., G.W.G.
Populus balsamifera L. Dyrham Wood, G., G.W.G.
BRISTOL BOTANY IN 1954 21
Orchis praetermissa Druce. Damp meadow, Codrington; and
Seven Springs, Dodington Park, G., G.W.G.
O. ericetorum (E. F. Linton) E. S. Marshall. Cromhall Common,
G., G.W.G.
Platanthera chlorantha (Custer) Reichb. Frenchpiece Wood,
Dodington Park, G., G.W.G.
Cephalanthera Damasonium (Mill.) Druce. Jbid., td.
Epipactis Helleborine (L.) Crantz. ‘Two localities near Westerleigh,
and in Dodington Park, G., G.W.G.
E. purpurata Sm. Stickstey Wood near Kilcot, G., EH. P. Bury.
A spectacular colony of most unusual plants of this species
has been observed in two successive seasons in the Lower
Woods, east of Wickwar, G., by Mr. EF. P. Bury. In this
colony the plants show excess of anthocyanin, being entirely
pinkish purple from the base up to the inflorescence, the
colour being more or less that of the perianth of Colchicum
autumnale. Specimens of the typical form are growing near by.
Later on last year Mr. Bury found another fine specimen
of his “‘ Pink Orchid ”’ in another part of these woods. Mr.
V.S. Summerhayes, who has seen the original colony, hopes
to write a report on it for publication in Watsonia.
E. leptochila (Godf.) Godf. Westridge Wood and Conygre Wood,
Wotton-under-Edge, G., #. P. Bury.
Allium oleraceum L. Field-border near Ridge Estate, Yate, G.,
G.W.G.
Ornithogalum umbellatum L. Roadside between Radstock and Mells,
S., J. W. Evans.
Juncus conglomeratus L. var. subuliflorus Drejer. Westridge Wood,
Wotton-under-Edge, G., G.W.G. A form with a more diffuse
inflorescence, not previously recorded.
J. Kochi Schultz. Boggy ground in Stoke Lane Valley between
Edford and Nettlebridge, S., 1941, C.L.S. and N.Y.S. Con-
firmed by Mr. P. M. Benoit, who is making a special study
of this group. 7. Kochi has usually been treated as a variety
of 7. bulbosus L., from which it differs in its six stamens and in
characters of the perianth and capsule.
Potamogeton trichoides Cham. and Schl. When this addition to our
flora was recorded in “ Bristol Botany in 1936’, we quoted
from Rep. Bot. Soc. and Exch. Club Brit. Isles, 1934, p. 845 (1935),
giving the locality as “‘ near Weston-super-Mare, S., 1934”
and the finder as ‘“‘ Miss M. Taylor’’, and this locality was
repeated by Messrs. Dandy and Taylor in their paper on the
British distribution of P. trichoides, in Journ. Bot. 1938, p. 168.
22 CECIL I. AND N. Y. SANDWITH
We have since learned that, in fact, the locality was Blagdon
Lake, S., and the finder was Miss E. Claydon. It is hoped
that- P. trichoides will be rediscovered at Blagdon. Messrs.
Dandy and ‘Taylor have verified that the specimens collected
were correctly identified.
Eriophorum angustifolium Honck. Seven Springs, Dodington Park,
G., G.W.G. This must be the Tormarton locality, from a
school list, given in Fl. Glos.
Scirpus sylvaticus L. By river, Great Elm, S., 1. W. Evans.
S. lacustris L. Pond on Inglestone Common, Wickwar, G., G.W.G.
S. setaceus L. Seven Springs, Dodington Park, G., G.W.G.
Carex Pairaei F. Schultz. Mr. Garlick has verified that the C.
Leerstt recorded in White Fl. (and repeated in Fl. Glos., under
C’. polyphylla) from the common near Leap Bridge beyond
Downend, G., is, as would be expected on the soil of this
locality, C.. Pairaez.
C’. strygosa Huds. Roadside ditch between Sodbury and Dodington,
and in Dyrham Wood, G., G.W.G.
C. lepidocarpa Tausch. Marsh, Seven Springs, Dodington Park,
G., G.W.G.
Melica uniflora Retz. forma albida Erick. Lane leading from East
Clevedon to Clapton-in-Gordano, S., 1944, Miss E. S. Todd.
A rare and very pretty form, not previously recorded.
Poa subcaerulea Sm. Yate Common, G., 1953, G.W.G., det. C. E.
Hubbard. This is the true plant of Smith, with acuminate
glumes, which has hitherto been known to most authors as
P. wrigata Lindm. The first verified record for the Bristol
district, since the P. pratensis L. var. subcaerulea (Sm.) Hook. |
of White Fl. and Fl. Glos. may refer only to forms of P. pratensis.
P. angustifolia L. Wall top, foot of Bowling Hill, Chipping Sodbury,
G.,G.W.G. This has been overlooked and was not mentioned,
even as a variety of P. pratensis, in White Fl.
Bromus lepidus Holmberg. Roadside, Mayshill to Nibley, G., G.W.G.
Agropyron repens (L.) Beauv. x Hordeum secalinum Schreb.
(x Agrohordeum Langer (Richt.) G. Camus). This rare
intergeneric hybrid was discovered by C.J.S. in August, 1945,
in brackish pasture by the Avon near Shirehampton, G., and
was refound by us last August when a single large patch
was noted, growing with the parents. This hybrid is ©
new to the British flora and has been previously recorded
only from Denmark. Specimens were shown at the autumn
Exhibition Meeting of the Botanical Society of the British
BRISTOL BOTANY IN 1954 23
Isles and Mr. C. E. Hubbard, who identified them, has written
a note on the plant which will be published in the Proceedings
of that Society.
A. caninum (L.) Beauv. Two localities near Yate Rocks, G., G.W.G.
Brachypodium pinnatum (L.) Beauv. Dodington Park, and slope
above Dyrham Wood, G., G.W.G. A large patch has been
known to us for many years by the upper Clevedon road near
the entrance to Charlton Woods, beyond Failand, S.
Dryopteris Borrerr Newm. Wooded quarries inthe Frome gorge,
Winterbourne Down ; Martin Croft Brake, Coalpit Heath ;
and between Leechpool and Goose Green, Yate, G., G.W.G.
Chara delicatula Agardh. var. barbata (Gant.) Groves and B.-Webster.
Shapwick, S., A. 7. Dodd, det. G. O. Allen, see Proc. B.S.B.I.,
vol. 1, pt. 2, p. 185 (1954).
Tolypella intricata Leonh. Pond, Little Sodbury End, Sodbury
Common, G., G.W.G.
ALIENS. It was a barren season at Avonmouth Dock, G., and
we found only two species worth noting, Stsymbrium septulatum
DC. and Avena sterilis L. Other collectors fared no better
there: Mr. C. -C. -Townsend had an interesting find at
Avonmouth in 1953, viz., Medicago rigidula (L.) Desr. var.
minor (S r.) Thell., which he grew from seed. Geranium
pusillum L., which was not recorded in the Adventive Flora,
was gathered by us both at Avonmouth and Ashley Hill, G.,
in 1934. Mr. I. W. Evans found Victa bithynica L. last summer
on waste ground at Horsefair, Bristol, G.
Saxifraga Cymbalaria L. var. Huetiana (Boiss.) Engl. Established
in an open wood on a private estate near Tockington, G.,
Mrs. W. Cummins. An interesting note on this delicate little
golden-flowered Saxifrage appeared in the N.W. Naturalist,
vol. 21, 39-41 (1946) ; see also B.E.C. 1946-47 Rep., 262
(1948). It is a native of N. Asia Minor and Armenia.
Symphytum grandiflorum DC., Trachystemon orientalis D.Don and
Arum italicum Mill. were found established in woodland at
Horton, G., by members of the Botanical Section of this Society
on one of the spring excursions.
Verbascum speciosum Schrad. Railway bank, Wickwar, G., EL. P.
Bury.
Bromus madritensis L. Quarry, Winterbourne, G., 1941, J, W,
Evans.
Hepatics. Fossombronia pusilla (L.) Dum. Parkfield Colliery ;
and Cogmill Quarry, Frampton Cotterell, G., G.W.G.
24 CECIL I. AND N. Y. SANDWITH
Lophozia excisa (Dicks.) Dum. Quarry near Cogmill, Iron Acton,
G., G.W.G.
Gymnocolea inflata (Huds.) Dum. and Scapania compacta (Roth)
Dum. Heathy ground on Siston Common, G., C.J.S. and
NUYS.
ADDITIONS TO THE FLORA OF STEEP Houm, 8. Mrs. M. L. Davis
led a party of botanists to the island on May 15th, when
tiny plants of Potentilla reptans L. were observed for the first
time on the summit plateau. WN.Y.S. added three Hepatics,
Reboulia hemisphaerica (L.) Raddi, Plagtochila spinulosa (Dicks.)
Dum. and Lophocolea bidentata (L.) Dum. ; and two Mosses,
Fissidens cristatus Wils. and Mnium rostratum Schrad. ‘These
were kindly identified at Kew by Miss 7. Taylor. The
Reboulia had already been found on the island by Dr. W.
Watson, as he has added, in writing, the note “‘ Steep Holm ”’
(without date) to the printed records of this species in the copy
he gave us of his “‘ Liverworts of Somerset.’’ In the same way,
he has recorded Marchesinia Mackaw (Hook.) Gray from
Steep Holm, a further addition to the flora of the island.
The fresh-water Alga, Prasiola crispa (Lightf.) Menegh. (det.
Miss C. I. Dickinson), was found by Mr. O. Buckle in water
among abandoned military buildings.
MRNITHOLOGICAL NOTES,
Bebo rOL DISTRIGT, 1954
COMPILED FROM REPORTS OF MEMBERS OF THE
B.N.S. ORNITHOLOGICAL SECTION
By H. H. Davis and P. J. GHapwicxk
(Read in title to Council, May 5, 1955. Received March 20, 1955)
HE Severn Estuary, the reservoirs, and other favoured haunts
have again been under frequent review, and records for 1954
show a greater proportion of highly interesting occurrences than
in any previous year. Thanks are due to all who have forwarded
their observations, and especially to the Bristol Waterworks
Company for allowing access to the site of the Chew Valley scheme,
where the new, and partially filled, reservoir! has been the constant
resort of an immense population of birds, and from time to time
has attracted species seldom met with beforehand in the District.
Outstanding records from Chew Valley include those of Greylag
Geese in March-April ; a Spoonbill, a Little Ringed Plover and
a Turnstone—all in May ; Black ‘Terns in unprecedented numbers
in early August; and Marsh Harriers in August-September.
From Chew Valley, too, there are reports of the successful breeding
of Shoveler and Tufted Duck, and the attempted breeding of
Black-headed Gulls. Among autumn waders at the same reservoir
were Black-tailed Godwits, Wood Sandpipers, Greenshanks, a
Knot, Little Stints, a Temminck’s Stint, Sanderlings and Ruffs.
At Blagdon reservoir Ruffs were seen in January ; Gadwall in
January, March and December ; and a Shag in November, while
the most important record from Barrow Gurney is of an Iceland
Gull in December. From Cheddar reservoir there are reports of
Gadwall in January-February ; a Bittern in February ; a Roseate
Tern in May; a Grey Phalarope in September; and Black-
throated Divers and a Red-throated Diver in December.
From coastal areas are records of a Sabine’s Gull at Weston-
super-Mare in August and a Grey Phalarope at Clevedon as late
as December. In higher reaches of the Estuary an exceptionally
large passage of Black Terns was seen at Sheperdine and the New
Grounds in May ; a party of fifteen Little Terns was reported from
Purton in September ; and Spotted Redshanks were identified at
1 Quoted in Ornith Notes, 1953. as Chew Stoke reservoir, but here referred to
throughout as Chew Valley reservoir.
26 H. H. DAVIS AND P. J. CHADWICK
Sheperdine in November. Among records of special note from
the New Grounds are those of Whooper Swans and Ruffs in
February ; a Common Scoter in March; Avocets in August ;
two Glaucous Gulls in December ; and a Long-tailed Duck on
the canal, November—December. From January to March several
Lesser White-fronts, up to four Barnacle Geese and a Red-breasted
Goose were visitors of particular interest among common White-
fronts at the New Grounds and, at the same place, Pink-footed
Geese, with a peak total of 120, were again at maximum strength
in early November.
Noteworthy observations from other localities are of Crossbills
at Wrington in January ; an Iceland Gull on the R. Avon in
March ; a Hoopoe at Ubley in May; and a Short-eared Owl
on Mendip in September. A Golden Oriole—the first to be
reported for more than half a century was heard and seen in Leigh
Woods in May, and two visited Littleton-on-Severn in June,
while a Wryneck was trapped at Long Ashton, and another
found dead at Wrington, in August, and a Willow Tit was twice
observed at Little Stoke in December.
Unless otherwise stated the records below refer only to 1954 and,
for the most part, are the result of contributions by the following
members—R. Angles, Miss B. M. Bigg, A. E. Billett, P. F. Bird, H. J.
Boyd, Col. G. A. Bridge, B. K. Brooke, M.A. Bullen, G. C. Buxton,
Mrs. S. I. Buxton, Miss K. M. Cary, P. J. Chadwick, Miss G. G.
Clement, G. E. Clothier, D. M. Cormack, R. 8S. Cormack, Miss
D. Crampton, R. V. Culverwell, H. H. Davis, E. E. Dunn, H.
Dunnicliff, D. R. Hamblett, R. G. Hamilton, W. A. Holmes,
B. King, H. R. H. Lance, Mrs. J. M. Lance, A. C. Leach, G. Mogg,
H. W. Neal, P. J. M. Nethercott, Mrs. B. CG. Palmer, Miss E. M.
Palmer, W. T. Pares, Canon E. W. Plowright, R. H. Poulding,
J. A. Pryce, W. L. Roseveare, J. H. Savory, Peter Scott, T. Ba
Silcocks, M. Tucker, Miss C. A. L. Wareham, Miss F. Wareham,
H. F. Webb, N. Webb and M. A. Wright. Observations are
followed by the appropriate initials, with names of non-member
contributors in full.
The area covered is that part of Gloucestershire (G.) lying
east of the Severn and south of a line from the New Grounds
to the county boundary at Tetbury, and Somerset (S.) north of
the R. Axe from Brean Down to Wells and a line thence to the
county boundary near Frome. For the purpose of this Report
the area extends westward into the Channel and Estuary to include
the islands of Steep Holm and the Denny (cf. Sketch Map, Proc.
BONDS... 1047 a 225)
BLACK-THROATED Diver Colymbus arcticus
S. Two, evidently immatures, watched in good sunlight with
30 X telescope, Cheddar res., Dec. 17; birds, described as being
ORNITHOLOGICAL NOTES 27
a little larger than a nearby Red-throated Diver, first identified
by B.K. and W.L.R., who have supplied full details. Seen also
on 18th (C.A.L.W. ef al.) but not subsequently. First record for
Cheddar and third only for the District.
RED-THROATED DivER Colymbus stellatus
S. One, sometimes two, reported from Cheddar res., various
Mates, Dec. 5-19 (B.K.B., K.M.C., N.W. e al.). B.K.- records
that, as with most examples in recent years, both birds showed
evidence of being oiled.
GREAT CRESTED GREBE Podiceps cristatus
S. Bred as usual, Blagdon res.—at least three pairs with young
noted, Aug. 1 (P.J.C.). May have bred, Chew Valley res., where
twelve seen, including pair with almost fully grown young, Aug. 15
(B.K.),
RED-NECKED GREBE Podiceps griseigena
S. One, Cheddar res., Jan. 8, 1953 (cf. Rep. Som. Birds, 1953,
p. 6).
SLAVONIAN GREBE Podiceps auritus
S. Single bird, Cheddar res., several dates, Jan. 31-Feb. 14,
and two, Feb. 21, 28 (W. B. Alexander, P.J.C., H.H.D.).
BLACK-NECKED GREBE Podiceps nigricollis
S. Two, Cheddar res., Sept. 6 (G. Boyle) and up to three,
various occasions, Dec. 5-31 (K.M.C., W.A.H., H.R.H.L., E.W.P.
et al.). One, Barrow Gurney resrs., Dec. 12 (P.J.C.).
LitTLE GREBE Podiceps ruficollis
G. Ad. and two young at clay pits, Littleton-on-Severn, June 26
(A.C.L.).
S. Two pairs bred, Litton res. (A. Tyte per P.J.C.).
MANX SHEARWATER Puffinus puffinus
G. Remains of dead bird, Severn Beach, Sept. 21 (H.W.N.).
GaANNET Sula bassana
G. One, evidently in its second year, found exhausted, Coalpit
Heath, July 18 ; subsequently recovered and was released in the
Estuary at Aust (R. M. McCready per P.J.C.). Remains, probably
third year bird, Severn Beach, Aug. 26 (P.J.C.).
Cormorant Phalacrocorax carbo
G. Records from the Estuary include those of four in flight
over Aust Cliff, Nov. 11 (P.J.C.) and one, Sheperdine, on 24th
(E.E.D., H.F.W.).
S. Highest number noted at _ reservoirs—eleven, Cheddar,
Mar. 7 (P.J.C., B.K.). First records from Chew Valley res. are
of two, May 9g (D.C.) and one or two on various dates, Sept.-Oct.
(B.K.B., B.K., R.H.P. ef al.). Four, Blagdon res., Nov. 14 (G.C.B.,
».1-B.).
28 H. H. DAVIS AND P. J. CHADWICK
SHAG Phalacrocorax aristotelis
S. One, immature, Blagdon res., Nov. 14; this, or another,
found dead, same place, on 21st had been ringed at Bardsey Is.
Observatory, June 27 (B.K.B.). Close views of immature bird,
evidently storm driven, on Marine Lake, Weston-super-Mare,
Dec. 4 (B.M.B., H.R.H.L.).
HERON Ardea cinerea
G. Nest with two fledged young, Lower Almondsbury, June 22
(ACE Bae
S. ‘Twenty-nine occupied nests (28 in four ash trees and one
in oak), Brockley Combe, May 1 (B.K., B.K.B., N.W. eé al.).
22 occupied nests in 20 trees (including ash, oak, beech, poplar,
chesnut and fir), Uphill Grange, Mar.-May (W.L.R.). Records
of occupied nests at other heronries are of three, Warleigh Wood,
nr. Bath, Apr. 21 (Miss C. J. H. Rogers) and three, Orchardleigh,
nr. Frome, on 22nd (Miss E. D. Overend).
BitTERN’ Botaurus stellaris
S. One, first seen in reed bed and afterwards in flight, at
claypits, Cheddar res., Feb. 17 (M. Chard per B.K.).
SPOONBILL Platalea leucorodia
S. Adult seen at 150 yards range, Chew Valley res., May 2 ;
bird feeding in usual style, with bill immersed and side to side
motion of head (B.K.).
Ma.xiarp Anas platyrhyncha
S. Coastal returns of 140 off Brean Down, Feb. 14, and same
number off Clevedon, Sept. 5; ¢. 100, Axe Estuary, Oct. 10
(P.J.C.). Max. count, Blagdon res. : 330, Jan. 31, and at Cheddar
res.—125, Feb. 7 (P.J.C., B.K.). Exceptional mid-summer totals
of 220, June 3, and 600, July 18, at Chew Valley res. ; several
counts of 500 or more, same place, early Aug.—late Oct., while
total of 1,000, Dec. 17, is largest inland count yet returned (B.K.).
Various breeding records from Chew Valley include a note for
May 15 of three females with broods of twelve, eleven and six
respectively (B.K.).
TEAL Anas crecca
G. Party of twelve, R. Avon above Sea Mills, Feb. 2 (A.C.L.).
At least 1,600 on Estuary, New Grounds, Dec. 3 (H.J.B.).
S. Reservoir totals include those of 380, Blagdon, Jan. 31 ;
330, Barrow Gurney, Jan. 30, and 820, same place, Dec. 27 (G.E.C.,
B.K.). Exceptional spring count of at least 800, Chew Valley,
Mar. 21, and minimum counts at same reservoir of 1,300, Dec. 17,
and 1,050 on 26th (B.K.). Max. total for coastal areas—227 off
Brean Down, Dec. 27 (T.B.5.).
ORNITHOLOGICAL NOTES 29
GARGANEY Anas querquedula
G. Two, New Grounds, Mar. 20, and two, Sept. 11-14 (H.J.B.).
S. A male, Chew Valley res., May 2, 14 (B.K.) and two males,
Aus. 3 {P.J.C., H.H.D., B.K.).
GADWALL_ Anas Strepera
Sup Male, Cheddar res., Jan. 3, 10, Feb. 7 (P.J.C., B.K., E. G.
Richards) and male and two females, Feb. 27 (CQ. H. Fry). Up
i three, Blagdon res., various dates, Jan. 3-31 (P.J.C., B.K.),
and a pair Mar. 31 (B.K.B.) and Dec. 4 (T.B.S.).
WicEon Anas penelope
G. About 75, Severn Beach, Jan. 11 (H.D.) and at least 700,
New Grounds, on 12th (H.J.B.).
S'S) viax. totals, Blagdon res:: 478, Jan. 31; 363, Feb. 7;
and 257, Mar. 7 (P.J.C., B.K.). Several very large counts from
Chew Valley res., including those of 760 or more, Mar. 14, 21
(B.K.) and 785, Dec. 19 (G.C.B., S.I.B.) ;_ pair close in to reservoir
bank, same place, on unusual date of July 18 (B.K.). Highest
coastal count—120, Yeo Estuary, Feb. 10 (W.L.R.).
PINTAIL Anas acuta
G. Several exceptionally high totals reported from the Estuary,
New Grounds, including 200, Feb. 8; 112, Mar. 7; 223, Dec. 15
(H.J-B.) ; and 273 males (females not counted) on 28th (P.S.).
S. Small numbers, Blagdon and Cheddar resrs., various
occasions, Jan.-Mar. and Nov.-Dec. (B.K.B., P.J.C. et ai.).
Twenty-eight, Chew Valley res., Feb. 27, and 70 (largest total yet
from the reservoirs), same place, Mar. 21 (B.K.). Coastal record
of 62 off Brean Down, Jan. 12 (A.G. Dixon).
SHOVELER Spatula clypeata
S. A few, Barrow Gurney resrs., Jan. (A.C.L., H.R.H.L. eé¢ al.),
but not more than one or two at any time, Cheddar, while from
Blagdon the only noteworthy total is that of 46, Jan. 3 (P.J.C.,
B.K.). From Chew Valley res. are counts of 60, Mar. 21 ; 30 as
late as June 13 (B.K.); 116, Dec. 19 (G.C.B., S.I.B.) and 145
on 28th (P.J.C.). At least three pairs bred successfully, same
reservoir (B.K.). Thirty-one on flooded fields, Long Ashton,
Nov. 28 (P.J.G.).
scAup Aythya marila
S. A female, Cheddar res., Jan. 3, and another (or same),
Mar. 7 (P.J.C., B.K.). Records from Blagdon are of an ad. male
found dead, Feb. 6 (P.J.C.), and of females—one, Feb. 7; two,
Apr. 4; and one, Oct. 31 (B.K.).. A male, Clevedon bathing pool,
Beb. ro (G.C.B., S.1.B.). Single female, Chew Valley res.,
Dec. 5, 8 (B.K.).
30 H. H. DAVIS AND P. J. CHADWICK
TurteD Duck Aythya fuligula
_ §. Max. counts at reservoirs—Blagdon: 180, Jan. 3 (P.J.C.,
B.K.) and c. 300, Nov. 13 (H.R.H.L., J.M.L.) and Dec. 3 (G.C.B.,
S.1.B.) ; Barrow Gurney: 60, Jan. 17, and, 65; Dec. Wai(F. j:C:) 4
Cheddar: 128, Jan. 24 (P.J.C., B.K.) ; Chew Walleyeea. Apr of
(D.C.) and 340, Dec. 19 (G.C.B., S.I.B.). Highest total, Orchard-
leigh, 52, Mar. 7 (Miss E. D. Overend). At least three pairs bred
successfully, Chew Valley res. (P.J.C., H.H.D., B.K.).
PocHARD A)ythya ferina
S. Noteworthy reservoir totals include 340 (227 males),
Cheddar, Jan. 3, and 318, Feb. 7 (P.J.C., B.K.) ; and 300-400,
Blagdon, various dates, Nov.—Dec. (G.C.B., H.R.H.L. e al.).
Several counts of 800 or more, Chew Valley res., Nov.—Dec.
(G.C.B., B.K.) ; at least 1,200, same place, Wee, 17.(B. 1). Party
of six in flight over Brean Down, Nov. 7 (P.J.C.).
GOLDENEYE Bucephala clangula
S. Reported from the reservoirs in small numbers, various
dates, Jan.-Apr. and Nov.—Dec. Max. returns of 22, Cheddar,
Jan. 31, and 39, Blagdon, Mar. 10 (B.K.). Records from Chew
Valley res. are of single birds, Apr. 17 (B-K.), Dec. 28 (P.}.Cig
and of two, Nov. 14 (B.K.).
LonG-TAILED Duck Clangula hyemalis
G. A first winter male visited the ship canal, Slimbridge, about
Nov. 13, and remained till Dec. 10, when it was unfortunately
shot (S. T. Johnstone et al. per H.J.B.).
Common ScoTER Melanitta nigra
G. One, a female, New Grounds, Mar. 20, 21 ; bird seen ata
watercourse on pasture land between W.T. enclosures and the
saltings (D. Scarles).
Emer Somateria mollisima
S. A female off Brean Down, Jan. 28, Feb. 14, and Mar. 18
(P.J.C., B.K., W.L.R.) may have been the bird reported from
same place in previous Dec. (cf. Proc. B.N.S., 1659,"ps gor):
GOOSANDER Mergus merganser
G. Two on Estuary, New Grounds, Jan. 22 (D. Scarles per
Jets | fale.)
: ee from the reservoirs : one or two, Barrow Gurney,
various dates, Jan.-Feb. (M.A.B., A.C.L. e¢ al.) ; up to four,
Blagdon, various dates, Jan.-Apr. (B.K.B;, GG.C., J.-A Pa
C.A.L.W. ef al.) and single bird, Dec. 4 (T.B.S.) ; two, Chew
Valley, Feb. 27, Dec. 26 (B.K.) ; while records from Cheddar
include those of eight (3 ad. males), Jan. 31 (B.K.) ; eight (4 ad.
males), Feb. 4 (W.L.R.) ; nine (4 ad. males) on 7th; eight (alll
redheads) on 2ist; and five, Mar. 7 (P.J.C., B.K.). Party of
ORNITHOLOGICAL NOTES 31
eight (3 ad. males) settled in Axe Estuary, flying in from direction of
Sieddar res., Feb. 14 (P.J.C., B.K.).
SmMew Mergus albellus
G. Single redhead, R. Avon, above Sea Mills, Feb. 2 (A.C.L.).
S. Most records from Blagdon res., where birds frequently
noted, early Jan. to third week of March, with max. totals of
fourteen (6 ad. males), Feb. 21 (B.K.); thirteen (3 ad. males)
Feb. 27 (C.A.L.W., F.W.) ; and fourteen (3 ad. males), Mar. 7
(P.J.C.). Ad. male, Barrow Gurney resrs., Feb. 7 (R.V.C.), and
single redheads, same place, Jan. 30 (P.J.C., B.K.) ; Cheddar,
mam. 24 (B.K.), Feb. 4 (W.L.R.) and 21 (P.J.C.); and Chew
palley, Feb. 27 (B.K.).
SHELD Duck Tadorna tadorna
S. Max. totals in coastal areas: 124 off Brean Down, Feb. 7
(Miss L. Garrard per B.K.); c¢. 450, Axe Estuary, Oct. 2, 10
ae ., 9.1.5., P.J.C.) ; ¢. 230, Weston Bay, Oct. 27 (W.L.R.) ;
and 200 or more, Sand Bay, Nov. 11-28 (H.R.H.L., J.M.L.,
T.B.S.). The only reservoir records are from Chew Valley, where
up to five seen, various dates, Apr.—June (D.C., B.K.) and single
birds on three occasions, Oct.—Dec. (B.K.).
GREYLAG GOOosE Anser anser
G. Three, first reported from New Grounds in previous Dec.,
remained in the vicinity of the Wildfowl Trust enclosures till
Mar. 30, but were not seen subsequently (H.J.B.).
S. Party of three visited Chew Valley res. in early spring and
stayed several weeks. First noted, Mar. 21 (B.K.) and observed
on subsequent dates to Apr. 13 (B.K.B., G.C.B. et al.) ; seen also
by P.S., who pronounced them a family party of two adults and
an immature.
WHITE-FRONTED GoosE Anser albifrons
_ G. New Grounds: Jan. numbers lower than usual, not reaching
2,000 until 22nd, and rising to 2,250 by Feb. 8 (H.J.B.). Sub-
sequent rapid build-up, actual counts of c. 3,900 being returned on
eb. 20, 21 (H.J.B., B.K.) and 3,600 on 24th (H.J.B.). At least
3,250 still present, Mar. 2, and 2,500 on morning of 7th, but only
1,450 that evening. About 750 counted Mar. 20, thereafter rapid
decrease ; last seen, party of five, on 27th (H.J.B.). Autumn
arrivals later than usual and numbers relatively small. First
reported, party of thirteen, Oct. 9, while not more than 80 to end
of Nov. Count of 394, Dec. 3, after which a steady increase to
¢. 1,000 at close of year (H.J.B.). Records from elsewhere are of
: Hambrook, Jan. 27 (R.H.P.) and 70 over Stoke Bishop, Feb. 7
m.C.L.).
B: About 30 over Long Ashton, Jan. 30. (P.J.C.) and ¢. 200
over Chilcompton, Feb. 8 (Miss E. D. Overend). Thirty on
32 H. H. DAVIS AND P. J. CHADWICK
water, Barrow Gurney resrs., Jan. 26 (ranger per B.K.) and 35, :
same place, Feb. 8 (M.A.W.). ‘Twenty-two over Cheddar res.,
Jan. 28, and 43 in nearby field, Feb. 14 (R. E. Jones per B.K.) ;
skeins of 28 and 26 over same reservoir; Feb. 7aP3)-Gu, B.Ko Ee
Seen, Chew Valley res. on various occasions, the follayang being
recorded—24 Feb. 13, 20 (D.C.) and 16 vompo7 tannin): 16,
Mar. 7, 14 (G.C.B., B.K.), and seven on 21st (B.K.).
LessER WHITE-FRONTED GOOSsE Anser erythropus
G. Adult, first reported at New Grounds in previous Oct.,
remained to Feb. 15 or later. Another ad., same place, Jan. 25-
Mar. 5; a third on Feb. 25 only, and a first-winter bird, Jan. 16-
Miars2 (iH. )-B.):
BEAN GoosE Anser fabalis
G. First winter bird, New Grounds, Feb. 7-13 (H.J.B.).
PINK-FOOTED GoosE Anser brachyrhynchus
G. Up to eight, New Grounds, various dates, Jan.—early Mar.,
seven staying as late as Mar. 17 (H.J.B.). First autumn arrivals,
same place—fifteen, Sept. 19 (P.J.C., H.H.D.), increasing to 109,
Oct. 7, and max. of 120, Nov. 6; 84 still remaining, Dec. 19, and
55 on 20th, but thereafter only one or two to end of year (H.J.B.).
Brent Goose Branta bernicla
G. Immature bird of dark-breasted form, B. b. bernicla, first
seen, New Grounds, in previous Nov., remained to Jan. 25 or
later (Ei): BB: P.-C: El Be eival):
BARNACLE GoosE Branta leucopsis
G. Two, New Grounds, Feb. 8, and up to four, various occasions,
to Mar. 17 (H.J.B., P.J.C., B.K.). One, same placey Wee. am
tOmerst (bt) be).
RED-BREASTED GoosE Branta ruficollis
G. One, first winter bird, seen among White-fronts at New
Grounds, frequent intervals, Jan. 8-25, and again Feb. 13 -to
Mar. 5 (H.J.B., P.J.C., H.H.D., B.K., P.S. eé al.) ; third Gloucesters
shire record (cf. Brit. Birds, XXXV, p. 833° GEN son 20)
MuTE Swan) Cygnus olor
S. Sixty-four on R. Avon, Bath, June 3 (B.K.). Highest
reservoir totals: 55, Blagdon, July 22 (W.L.R.) and 52, Aug. 29°
(C.A.L.W., F.W.). Forty-three on flooded fields, Long Ashton,
Oct: 24.30 (MA W.)..
WHOOPER SWAN Cygnus cygnus
G. Two ads. on saltings, New Grounds, Feb. 9-12 (H.J.B.).
BuzzArRD- Buteo buteo
G. Two over New Grounds, Jan. 16 (B.K.) and two, Codrington,
on 18th (G.M.). One, sometimes two, Wotton-under-Edge area,
various dates, Mar.-May and Aug.—Nov. (H.F.W.). Inconclusive
ORNITHOLOGICAL NOTES 33
report of a pair nesting, Tortworth (A.E.B.), but no further
breeding information (survey of c. 400 sq. kms. by 18 members).
Single birds, Cromhall, Apr. 25 (A.E.B.) ; Little Stoke, May 15
(H.H.D.) ; Aust, Sept. 6 (H.W.N.) and Charfield on 15th (M.A.B.).
S. One, Steep Holm, Apr. 6, heading for Brean Down from
direction of Welsh coast (P.J.C., R.H.P.). Nine pairs believed
breeding in area of 80 sq. kms. of northern section of Mendip Hills
from Uphill to Blagdon, but only five nests located—Blagdon,
Cheddar (2), Churchill and Hutton (survey by 10 members).
Other breeding season records include: pair with nest, Butcombe
Creek, and second pair over nearby wood, Apr. 18 (P. J.C.) ; pair,
Bourton Combe, May 28 (G.A.B., G.E.C.) ; and single birds,
Ebbor Gorge, nr. Wells, Apr. 1 (H.D.) ; Chewton Mendip and
East Harptree, Apr. 24, and Batcombe, Cheddar, May 8 (P.J.M.N.).
Pairs probably bred in two localities near Wells (C. H. Fry).
MarsH HarriER Circus aeruginosus
S. One, a juvenile in dark chocolate-brown plumage, with
small amount of cream on crown and nape, Chew Valley res.,
various dates, Aug. 16-31 or later (B.K.B., G.C.B., D.C., H.W.N.).
What was evidently asecond bird, described as female or immature,
with light buff shoulder markings and cream on crown extending
to mantle, reported from same place, Sept. 19 (B.K., R.H.P.).
Hossy Falco subbuteo
G. Single birds overhead, Little Stoke, May 20, June 28
S. One, Whitchurch, Aug. 6 (B.K.B.) and Chew Valley res.
Sn 24th (B.K.).
PEREGRINE Falco peregrinus
G. Ad. shot, Northwoods, Winterbourne, Mar. 13 (Dr. J.
Cates per H.H.D.). Single birds, Tockington, July 25 (A.E.B.) ;
must Cliff, Oct. 31 (J.A.P.); and Sheperdine, Nov. 24 (Rev.
G. W. H. Moule, H.F.W.).
S. One, Steep Holm, Apr. 3, and a pair Sept. 4, but no direct
evidence of breeding (G.E.C., P.J.C., R.H.P.). Probably bred
Brean Down, where pair seen, May 27, June 26, and a juvenile
watched in flight on 29th (W.L.R.). Other coastal records are of
single birds, Sand Point at frequent intervals (B.K., W.L.R.
@B.S.); Yeo Estuary, Aug. 26, Dec. 18 (B.K.B., T.B.S.) ; and
Blevedon, Feb. 10 (H.R.H.L.). Reservoir records are of one,
Blagdon, Jan. 31 (P.J.C., B.K.) and Chew Valley, Aug. 29, Sept. 19
(R.H.P.).
MeErtin-) Falco columbarius
S. ‘Twice reported—a male, Weston-super-Mare, Oct. 29
(H.R.H.L.) and a female or immature, Chew Valley res., Nov. 14
(B.K.).
Cc
34 H. H. DAVIS AND P. J} CHADWICK
KeEstTREL Falco tinnunculus
G. One over Broad Plain, Old Market, Bristol, Dec. 19 (R.H.P.).
S. Two flying eastwards off Steep Holm, Sept. 4 (G.E.C.,
PoC. REP):
RED-LEGGED PARTRIDGE Alectoris rufa
S. Injured bird beneath telegraph wires, Claverton Down,
Bath, Mar. 16 (E. Smith per B.K.). Pair, Saltford, May 13 (B.K.).
WaTER Rait Rallus aquaticus
G. Again seen at small pond, Wick, where single bird noted
daily, Jan. 21-27 (D.R.H.).
S. One, Ubley, Jan. 17, and two, various dates, Feb.—Mar.
(G.G.C., K.M.C:, C.A.L.W., F.W.). One, (Monkton Combeg
several occasions, Feb. 18-Mar. 11 (A .G. Dixon). Three or more
in large bed of spartina grass on mud-flats, north end of Sand Bay,
Mar. 6, and single birds seen or heard, same place, Nov. 13,
Dec. 11 ; observations in present year, and in Oct., 1953, show
that when disturbed by unusually high tides the birds fly to the
cover of bramble bushes on adjoining slopes of Sand Point and
return later to the spartina bed (R.A.). One calling, Cheddar
clay-pits, Dec. 5 (B.K.).
Coot Fulica atra
S. At least 40 nests, Chew Valley res., May 30 (B.K.). Count
of 400 or more birds, same place, Oct. 17—number rising to
¢. 2,000 by Dec=17 (B.K.).
OYSTERCATCHER Haematopus ostralegus
G. One, Sea Mills, R. Avon, Feb. 25 (W.A.H.). One on
pasture, Oldbury-on-Severn, Oct. 2 (R.H.P.).
S. Coastal records include those of 50 or more, Brean Sands,
Feb. 14 (P.J.C., B.K.) and Mar. 18 (W.L.R.) ; 50, Sand Bay,
Aug. 25 (E.E.D., H.F.W.) and 41, Nov. 7 (7-B:3.) 5) 75,,¥V estom
Bay, Oct.. 21 (T.B.S.) and 1060, Nov. 19 (HIRE JME.
Twice reported from the reservoirs—three in flight, Chew Valley,
Aug. 3 (P.J.C., H.H.D., B.K.) and three on mud-bank, same place,
Sept. 26 (G.C.B., S.I.B.).
Lapwinc Vanellus vanellus
G. Count of 300 or more, New Grounds, Aug. 22 (E.E.D.
S. About 1,500 over Weston Airport, Jan. 22 (W.L.R.).
Abundant, Chew Valley res., mid-Aug. to end of year; max.
total of at least 1,000, Dec. 17 (B.K.).
RINGED PLOVER Charadrius Maticula
G. Highest figures from the Estuary: c. 300, New Grounds,
May 23 (H.F.W.) and 275, Severn Beach, Aug. 26 (P.J.C.).
S. Coastal reports of 80, Sand Bay, Aug. 25 (E.E.D., H.F.W.)
ORNITHOLOGICAL NOTES 35
Bac 50, Weston Bay, Dec. 1 (H.R.H.L., J.M.L.). Up to 14,
Chew Valley res., various occasions, May-Sept. (G.C.B., D.C.,
BK. ¢ al.).
LitTLE RINGED PLOVER Charadrius dubius
S$. One clearly identified, Chew Valley res., May g; bird, in
close company with four Ringed Plover, under intermittent
observation with binoculars and telescope for more than an hour,
at ranges down to 25 yards. Second record for the County and
first for the Bristol area (B.K.) (for confirmatory details see Rep.
Som. Birds, 1954).
Grey PLovER Squatarola squatarola
G. Four, New Grounds, Jan. 17 (R.H.P.) and five, Sheperdine,
Mov. 7 (E.E.D., H.F.W.).
S. One spring record—four, Yeo Estuary, May 9 (B.K.B.).
Up to six, Sand Bay and Yeo Estuary, various dates, Aug. to end
mevear (R.A., H.R.H.L., T.B.S. e al.).
TURNSTONE Arenaria interpres
G. Counts of 180, Severn Beach, Aug. 26, and 195, Sept. 16
(P.J.C.). Reported also from Oldbury-on-Severn—35, Mar. 28
(H.F.W.) and Sheperdine—15 or more, Oct. 2 (R.H.P.), Nov. 7
S. Single bird on rocks, Steep Holm, Apr. 5; first record for
the island (D.M.C., R.H.P., M.T. e¢ al.). One inland, Chew
Valley res., May 14, 23 (B.K.).
Common SNIPE Capella gallinago
_ §. Seventy put up from marsh land, Cheddar res., Mar. 7
(P.J.C., B.K.). At least 100 flushed from marshy ground, Chew
Valley res., Aug. 15 (B.K.) ; several small groups seen to combine
in flight into one flock of 76, same place, Nov. 28 (P.J.C.).
jack SnirpE Lymnocryptes minimus
G. Two, Wotton-under-Edge, Feb. 21 (H.F.W.) and one, New
Grounds, Nov. 6 (H.J.B.).
S. Single bird, Chew Valley res., Nov. 14, and two, Dec. 5
(B.K.).
Woopcock Scolopax rusticola
G. One, Stinchcombe Hill, Nov. 7 (D.R.H.). Two or more,
Wolfridge Wood, Alveston, Dec. 27 (H.H.D.).
S. About 20 in a covert nr. Radstock, Jan. 2 (E. G. Holt).
Single birds, Hutton Wood, Feb. 26 (W.L.R.) and Kewstoke
Woods, Nov. 7 (R.A.).
WHIMBREL Numenius phaeopus
S. Inland records of up to three, Cheddar res., several occasions,
May 5-9 (G. Boyle, B.K.) ; five, Kenn Moor, May 8 (B.K.B.) ;
two, Chew Valley res., May 9, 14, and one, Aug. 7 (B.K.).
36 H. H. DAVIS AND P. J. GHADWICK
BLACK-TAILED Gopwit Limosa limosa
G. ‘Two on Estuary, New Grounds, July 31 (D.R.H.) ; up to
20, same place, various dates, Aug.-Oct. (H.J.B.).
S. Fourteen, Chew Valley res., Apr. 3 (B.K.B.) ; single bird,
same place, May 20 (B.K.) and one or two, several occasions,
July-Aug. (R.H.P., B.K.). One, mouth of Avon, Sept. 17
(W.A.H.).
BAR-TAILED Gopwitr Limosa lapponica
G. One, mouth of Avon, Jan. 31 (R.H.P.), Sept. 5 (J.A.P.)s
Two on Estuary, Sheperdine, Sept. 5 (R.H.P.) and three, Severn
Beach, on 7th (W.A.H.).
S. Single birds, Sand Bay, Feb. 6 (R.A.), and Axe Estuary,
Apr. 10 (H.H.D.). Small numbers, Sand Bay and Yeo Estuary,
at frequent intervals, Sept.-Oct. (various observers), with max.
of 20, Sand Bay, Sept. 26 (T.B.S.).
GREEN SANDPIPER Tringa ochropus
G. One, New Grounds, Jan. 1 (H.J.B.) and one at farmyard
pool, Little Stoke, Aug. 18 (H.H.D.). Single birds, Sheperdine,
Aug. 8 (R.H.P.), Oct. 2 (Rev. G. W. H. Moule) ; and Berkeley
Pill and Oldbury-on-Severn, Oct. 2 (R.H.P.).
S. Frequent, Chew Valley res., July-Oct.—usually up to three
or four, but max. of seven, Aug. 15 (various observers) ; single
birds, same place, Mar. 14, Nov. 21, Dec. 8, 28 (PB: )-C., BKge
Two, Litton res., mid-Nov. (A. Tyte per P.J.C.) and one, Dec. @
(B.K.). One put up from tide-line (exceptional in such habitat),
Sand Bay, Sept. 18 (R.A.).
Woop SANDPIPER Tringa glareola
S. Two, sometimes three, Chew Valley res., several occasions,
Auge 7-28 (G:C-B., S:l- Bs Bake):
COMMON SANDPIPER Actitis hypoleuca
S. Count of 59, Cheddar res., Apr. 25. (B.K.). At least 1599
Sand Point, July 29 (W.L.R.). One, evidently wintering, Chew
Valley res., Dec. 28 (B.K.).
REDSHANK Tringa totanus
G. Nesting proved, Oldbury-on-Severn, July 4, when half-grown
young bird found on river-bank and two or three pairs seen,
evidently holding breeding territories (R.H.P.). Max. figures for
organised counts on Estuary: 127, New Passage, Aug. 8; 142,
Aust, Sept. 5; and 107, Oldbury-on-Severn, Oct. 2 (R.H.P.).
S. Five nests located, Portbury, May 23 (G. Bright). Reservoir
records of two, Blagdon, Jan. 10 (W.L.R.) and up to eight, Chew
Valley res. (where one or two pairs probably bred), various occa-
sions, Apr.—Sept. (G.C.B., D.C., B.K.). Max. figures for organised
coastal counts, Clevedon—Portishead : 140, Sept. 5 ; 86, Oct. 3 ;
and 95, Dec. 5 (P.J.C.). Total of 205, mouth of Avon, Sept. 12
ORNITHOLOGICAL NOTES ot
(R.H.P.). Ninety on Marine Lake, Weston-super-Mare, Nov. 10
faR.H.L., J.M.L.) and 85 on 16th (T.B.S.). Counts of 164,
Sand Bay, Dec. 1 (T.B.S.) and 60, Kewstoke, on 15th (B.C.P.).
SPOTTED REDSHANK Tringa erythropus
G. Two on Estuary, Sheperdine, on late date of Nov. 17;
birds seen, in flight and on mud-banks, by Rev. G. W. H. Moule,
who has forwarded conclusive details.
GREENSHANK Tringa nebularia
G. Atleast six on Estuary, Purton, Oct. 6 (Rev. G. W. H. Moule).
S. The only spring notice is of one, Chew Valley res., May 9g
(B.K.). Autumn records from the reservoirs of up to five, Chew
Valley, various dates, July-Sept. (B.K.B., R.H.P. e¢ al.) ; up to
three, Barrow Gurney, various dates, Aug.—Sept. (P.J.C., A. G,
Dixon) ; and single birds, Cheddar, Sept. 7, Oct. 3 (A. G. Dixon
B.K.). Coastal report of two, Sand Bay, Aug. 16 (T.B.S.).
Knot Calidris canutus
G. Records include those of 20 on Avon, above Sea Mills,
Feb. 2 (A.C.L.) ; three, Oldbury-on-Severn, Mar. 28 (E.E.D
H.F.W.) ; and six, New Passage, Aug. 29 (H.W.N.).
S. Reported chiefly from Sand Bay, where three seen, Feb. 6, 7
(R.A., T.B.S.) and up to 13, several dates, Aug.-Sept. (R.A.).
One, very tame or exhausted, Chew Valley res., Aug. 31 (B.K.B.).
PURPLE SANDPIPER Calidris maritima
G. One, Severn Beach, Feb. 28 (W. B. Alexander).
S. One, Brean Down, Feb. 7, 1953 (G. Bright).
Lirtte Stint Calidris minuta
G. Two, Severn Beach, Aug. 26 (P.J.C.).
S. One, Chew Valley res., Aug. 11, 15 (B.K.) and two, Sept. 11
(B.K.B.). One, with Grey Plover, on tide-line, Sand Bay, Oct. 30
GR.A.).
TEMMINCK’s STINT Calidris temmincki
S. Single bird, with two Sanderlings, at water’s edge, Chew
Valley res., Aug. 29, viewed with telescope at 45 yds. range by
R.H.P., who has supplied full and conclusive details ; third record
for the District (cf. also Proc. B.N.S., 1947, p. 257).
Dunun Calidris alpina
G. About 100 on Avon mud-banks, Sea Mills, Feb. 2 (A.C.L.).
Many, probably 1,000, on saltings, New Grounds, Dec. 12 (B.K.).
S. Coastal records of c. 500, Sand Bay, Aug. 28 (R.A.) and
Weston Bay, Nov. 10 (H.R.H.L., J.M.L.) ; and c. 1,000, Brean
Sands, Dec. 30 (W.L.R.). Varying numbers, Chew Valley res.,
Apr.—July, with max. of 35, May 9 (D.C., B.K.) ; increase in Aug.
to unusually high iniand totals of 83 on 3rd (P.J.C., H.H.D., B.K,’
and 80 on 7th (G CB., S.I.B.).
38 H. H. DAVIS AND P. J. CHADWICK
CuRLEW SANDPIPER Calidris testacea
S. Single bird identified, Chew Valley res., Sept. 19; third
inland record for the District (B.K.).
SANDERLING Crocethia alba
S. Coastal reports of 23, Brean Sands, Feb. 14 (P.J.C., B.K.) ;
20, Sand Bay, May 20 (T.B.S.) ; and 13, same place, Sept. 11
(R.A.). Inland records of nine, Cheddar res., May 23 (B.K.)
and two, Chew Valley res., Aug. 1, 29 (P.J(C:) RoE Pe): }
Rurr Philomachus pugnax
G. Two, evidently wintering, New Grounds, Feb. 10, and
eleven, same place, Oct. 2 (H.J.B.).
S. Winter record of three, Blagdon res., Jan. 17 (G.G.C.,,
P.J.C., GA.L.W., F.W.). Several spring notices from Chew
Valley res., where the male of a pair on May g was in advanced
stage of breeding plumage (B.K.) ; up to four, same reservoir,
various dates, Aug.-Sept. (G. Boyle, S.I.B., R.H.P.). One,
mouth of Avon, Sept. 12-€P.J:C., R.H.P.).
Avocet Recurvirostra avosetta
G. Five on Estuary, New Grounds, Aug. 2; three on 11th
and five on 13th were doubtless birds of the same party (H.J.B.).
First recorded occurrence since that of four seen, apparently in
same area, March, 1913 (cf. Proc. B.N.S.; 1949, p.200):
Grey PHALAROPE Phalaropus fulicarius
S. One, Cheddar res., Sept. 21 (S. Say per BK.) ‘and one
probably same, on 26th (B.K.). Winter record from the coast
of one, feeding with party of Black-headed Gulls, Clevedon,
Dec: 45, (E.G):
GREAT BLACK-BACKED GULL Larus marinus
G. Bird found dead, New Passage, July 1, had been ringed
as a juvenile, Steep Holm, June 23, 1951 (R.H.P.). Max. winter
count, New Grounds—54, mostly ads., Dec. 12 (B.K.).
S. Reservoir records of three, Blagdon, Jan. 24 (P.J.C.) ; up
to five, Cheddar, various dates, Jan.-Apr. (P.J.C., B.K.) ; and
up to five, Chew Valley, several dates, Feb.-Mar. (B.K.). Breeding
reported from the Denny (2 miles off Portishead but in county of
Monmouthshire), where a pair seen and nest with three eggs
photographed, June 4; first record for the island (J.H.S.).
L&EssER BLACK-BACKED GuLL Larus fuscus graellsi
G. Winter count of 32 ads. and one third-year bird on Avon,
Cumberland Basin-Sea Mills, Dec. 26 (R.H.P.).
S. One recovered, Ogmore-by-Sea, Glam., Mar. 13, ringed as
ad., Steep Holm, Mar. 14, 1953 (R.H.P.). Numbers varying from
20 or 30 to 150 or more, frequently noted, Chew Valley res.,
Mar.-—July (B.K.) ; observations at dusk, same reservoir, from
ORNITHOLOGICAL NOTES 39
early Aug. showed that very large numbers were remaining to
roost, the following counts being returned : 500, Aug. 3 ; 600 on
moth, and at least 700 on 24th; 525, Sept. 19; 400 or more,
Nov. 21, Dec. 17; and the quite exceptional winter totals of 630
Or more, Dec. 26, and 720 on 28th (P.J.C. and B.K., who record
that the birds were almost all adults). Other winter counts of 50
in grassfield, Hinton Blewett, Nov. 28, and 40, Barrow Gurney
merc, Wec. 24 (P.J.C.).
SCANDINAVIAN LEssER BLACK-BACKED GuLL Larus fuscus fuscus
G.and §S. Twice reported—one, having deep grey-black mantle,
with other gulls, including three typical ads. of L. f. graellsii, in
car park, Eastville, Bristol, Jan. 31 (R.H.P.) and another with
uniformly dark upper-parts, Chew Valley res., May 14 (B.K.) ;
both identified as belonging to form L. f. fuscus, but these, and
other examples recorded in recent years, may perhaps have been
birds in intermediate plumage.
HERRING GuLu Larus argentatus
S. Up to 300, occasionally many more, Chew Valley res.,
various dates, Mar.—July or later; birds, mostly immatures, usually
at max. strength in late afternoons or evenings (D.C., B.K.).
Highest totals—c. 600, May 14, and at least 750 at 10.10 p.m. on
20th, when they were evidently remaining to roost; c. 600 at
9.15 p.m., July 13, also appeared to be roosting (B.K.). Recoveries
of birds ringed on Steep Holm by R.H.P. include: two, ringed
as juvs., 24/6/51 and 10/7/52, recovered Merthyr Tydvil, Glam.,
and Westbury-on-Trym, Bristol, c. 24/6/54 and early Oct. /54
respectively ; one ringed as ad., 6/10/53, recovered in “‘crow’s
nest’ of the “‘ Ivor Isobelle’’, Barry Docks, 5/3/54; and two,
ringed as ads., 17/3/53 and 17/3/54, recovered near Taunton,
23/10/54, and Aberthaw, Glam., 1/8/54 respectively.
Giaucous GuLL Larus hyperboreus
G. Two, third year birds or older, New Grounds, Dec. 17 (H.J.B.).
IcELAND GuLL Larus glaucoides
G. and §. One, identified as a fourth year bird, with Herring
Gulls, on Avon, nr. Bedminster Bridge, Bristol, several occasions,
Mar. 1-4, and a first year bird, with Herring and Black-headed
Gulls, Barrow Gurney resrs., Dec. 26 ; reported by P. J. C., who,
in both cases, has supplied conclusive details.
BLACK-HEADED GuLL Larus ridibundus
S. Large numbers, Chew Valley res., frequent intervals, Feb.
to end of year ; peak totals of up to 900 or more, Mar.-Apr., and
of c. 1,000, mid-Dec.; observations at dusk on various dates
showed that many were staying to roost (P.J.C., H.H.D., B.K.
et al.). Inconclusive evidence of successful breeding, same place,
June 2, when two pairs under close observation, and empty nest
40 H. H. DAVIS AND P. J. CHADWICK
found (P.J.C.). A count, on Dec. 12, of birds flying in to roost
on mud-banks at mouth of Avon yielded a total (c. 15,500) almost
identical with that obtained in Jan., 1953 (cf. Proc. B.N.S., 1953,
p: 398) (P2-C:).
SABINE’S GuLL Xema sabini
S. Adult in breeding plumage seen, and photographed, at
close range off Old Pier, Weston-super-Mare, Aug. 12 (H.R.H.L.,
J.M.L.) (cf. Brit. Birds, XLVIII, p. 83).
KiTTIWAKE Rissa tridactyla
G. Second-year bird, evidently storm driven and ailing, on
mudbanks, Sea Mills, Nov. 26 (R.H.P.).
S. Ad. found dead, mouth of Avon, Mar: 14 (R]E-P.):
Immature bird, in poor condition, flying off Tower Rock, Steep
Holm, and later seen on cliff ledge, Apr. 5 (D.M.C., P.J.C., R.S.C.
etal.). ‘Three ads. and an immature flying over sprat nets, Weston-
super-Mare, Nov. 28 (R.H.P.). Other coastal records: seven
ads and a second-year bird in flight, Clevedon—Portishead, Dec. 5
(P.J.C.) 5 single ads. dead, Weston-super-Mare, Dec. 15, 16
(H.R.H.L., J.M.L.) ; and four dead, Sand Bay, Dec. 25 (T.B.S.).
Six ads., Cheddar res., Dec. 5 (B.K., N.W.) and up to six ads.
and immatures (some dead) reported from same place, frequent
intervals, Dec. 8-31 .(K.M.C., H.ED:, Weleda
Single birds, Chew Valley res., Dec. 12, 18 (B.K.B.).
Biack TERN Chlidonias niger
G. Exceptional numbers in Severn Estuary on spring passage—
292 being counted over period of three hours flying up-river off
Sheperdine, May 9 (R.H.P.); ¢. 50 over mud-banks, New
Grounds, same date (H.H.D., G. Waterston) and half a doz.,
June 8 (H.J.B.). Autumn records of up to seven, New Grounds,
various dates, Aug.—Oct. (H.J.B.).
S. Unusually high numbers also occurred at the reservoirs in
spring, and again on autumn passage. ‘Two reported from
Cheddar, Apr. 25 (B.K.) and six, May 8 (WLR ])3 Wen ‘seenk
Blagdon, May 9 (W.T.P., C.A.L.W.) and 91 counted during the
morning at Cheddar, while at Chew Valley 90 were seen (perhaps
some from Cheddar) on evening of same day (G. Boyle, B.K.).
Noted, generally in small or moderate numbers, Blagdon, Cheddar
and Chew Valley, frequent intervals, early Aug. to mid-Oct. or
later (various observers) ; exceptional count of 170, Chew Valley,
on evening of Aug. 5 (P.J.C., B.K.), and other noteworthy totals
from same place of 40, Aug. 27 (B.K.B.) and 34, Sept. 6 (D.C.).
Two records only for Barrow Gurney—five, Aug. 26 and four on
28th (G.E.C., A. G. Dixon).
Common TERN Sterna hirundo Arctic TERN Sterna macrura
G. Common (or Arctic) Terns reported from the Estuary,
ORNITHOLOGICAL NOTES 4]
May g, when 61 counted flying up-stream off Sheperdine (R.H.P.) ;
one or two off New Grounds, same date (H.H.D.).
§. Frequently noted, Commons or Arctics, at the reservoirs on
both passages. Max. totals—22, Cheddar, May 9g (B.K.); 27
or more, Blagdon, Sept. 26, 27 (B.K.B., G.C.B.) ; and 55 high
overhead, Chew Valley, Oct. 3 (B.K.). Most birds probably
Commons, but up to three Arctic Terns definitely identified,
Cheddar, various dates, Aug.—Sept. (G.G.C., P.J.C., B.K., E. G.
Richards et al.).
RosEATE TERN Sterna dougalli
S. One, Cheddar res., May 5-7, was compared with nearby
Common (or Arctic) ‘Terns and clearly identified ; bird—seen in
flight and at rest, sometimes at extremely close range—attracted
attention by the characteristic “‘ aak aak”’ call ; white appearance
of upper parts ; unusually long tail streamers ; and the noticeably
pink flush on breast (G. Boyle, B.K., E.M.P. et al.). First record
for the District for nearly sixty years (cf. Proc. B.N.S., 1899, p. 96 ;
1947, p. 261). See also Rep. Som. Birds, 1954.
LitTLeE TERN Sterna albifrons
G. One on Estuary, Sheperdine, May 9 (R.H.P.) and party
of 15 flying downstream, Purton, Sept. 27 (Rev. G. W. H. Moule).
S. Single birds, Cheddar res., Apr. 25, and Chew Valley res.,
May 2 (B.K.).
Stock Dove Columba oenas
S. Nest with four eggs (normal clutch two), Chewton Keynsham,
Apr. 25 (G. Bright).
Cuckoo Cuculus canorus
G. Calling, Mangotsfield, as late as July 2 (D.M.C., R.S.C.)
and Little Stoke on 4th (H.H.D.).
S. Still calling, Long Ashton, July 1 (G.E.C.) and Hutton
on 2nd (W.L.R.).
BARN Ow. Tyto alba
S. Noted more frequently than in recent years. One, some-
times two, Blagdon, various occasions, Jan._Mar. and Nov.
(P.J.C., T.B.S.). Single bird, Burrington, Oct. 30 (P.J.M.N.) and
one or two, Chew Valley, late Dec. (P.J.C.). Reported from
Brean Down—single bird, Feb. 20, Dec. 27 (T.B.S.) and perhaps
three, Mar. 18 (W.L.R.).
SHORT-EARED Ow. Asio_flammeus
S. One quartering ground near Priddy Pool, Mendip, Sept. 18
wx. G. Dixon).
NIGHTJAR Caprimulgus europaeus
G. Heard, Bournstream, North Nibley, July 23 (H.F.W.).
S. One on arm of garden chair, Saltford, May 15 (B.K.).
42 H. H. DAVIS AND P. J. CHADWICK
Swirt Apus apus
G. Late dates—three, Wotton-under-Edge, Sept. 7 (H.F.W.)
and one, Mangotsfield on 9th (D.M.C., R.S.C.).
S. Enormous number over the water, Chew Valley res.,
several dates, second half of June, with estimated total of c. 2,000
on 27th; at least 1,000, same place, Aug. 2, but less than 100 on
ard, (3.1%, ).
KINGFISHER Alcedo atthis
G. Pair, Iron Acton, Apr. 14 (R.S.C.). Single birds, Bitton,
June 7 (R.S.C.) ; Littleton-on-Severn, June 26 (A.C.L.) ; and
over the Estuary, New Grounds, Sept. 19 (P.J.C., H.H.D.).
S. Frequently seen, Blagdon, Cheddar, Chew Valley and Litton
resrs. (various observers). Single birds, Banwell, Jan. 5 (W.L.R.) ;
Wick St. Lawrence, Aug. 14 (T.B.S.) ; and mouth of Avon,
Septs 123 P]sCne
Hooport Ubpupa epops
S. One feeding on a lawn, Ubley, May 2 (G. Lowther) (cf.
Evening Post, May 7).
LEssER SPOTTED WooppPECKER Dryobates minor
G. Single birds, Wotton-under-Edge, Apr. 23, 29, and two,
May 24 (H.F.W.). One frequently seen drumming on metal top
of electricity pole, Iron Acton, in May (Dr. J. H. Naish).
S. One, Saltford, June 20 (B.K.) and Blagdon, July 11 (P.J.C.).
Pair feeding young, Stanton Drew, June 9g, 1953 (G. Bright).
WRYNECK Jynx torquilla
S. Female found dead, Wrington, Aug. 23, and sent to City
Museum (per P.F.B.). One, evidently a bird of the year, trapped
and ringed, Long Ashton, Aug. 31 (G.E.C., R.H.P.).
Woop.tarK Lullula arborea
G. Fewer than usual in Dursley area ; only record—two, Mar.
27 (D.R.H.). Pair, Nibley Hill, throughout breeding season ; ©
four, same place, Sept. 5 (H.F.W.).
S. Breeding season records from Cheddar, Compton Bishop,
Crook Peak, Failand, Shipham and Sidcot (G.E.C., GC. H. Fry,
P.J.M.N. e al.). One, Brean Down, Jan. 28 (W.L.R.). Twelve,
Worlebury Hill, Nov. 28 (H.R.H.L., J.M.L.).
SanD Martin Riparia riparia
S. Colony of c. 20 pairs, several holes still containing young and
some juveniles seen in flight, in sand cutting, Chew Valley res.,
Sept. 19; cutting subsequently filled in (R.H.P.).
GOLDEN ORIOLE Oriolus oriolus
G. Two first summer males visited Littleton-on-Severn brick-
works in second week of June and remained at least three weeks,
being seen or heard, usually in withey trees, by various observers.
ORNITHOLOGICAL NOTES 43
c
Brief views obtained and characteristic ‘‘ weela-weeo ”’ call heard,
probably from both birds, on 26th (H.D., H.H.D., T. Jones et al.),
while on 27th A.E.B. and H.H.D. saw them extremely well in
adjoining hedgerow trees. Conclusive evidence on goth that
both were, in fact, giving the whistling call (J. B. Boutflower
per R.V.C.). Birds first noticed by brickwork’s employees, June
11, and last seen July 2 (T. Hucker).
S. Ad. male seen and heard in oak trees near Ranger’s cottages,
Leigh Woods, on morning of May 22 (C. Baker) and in the evening
(same observer and B.K.), when clear views obtained and both
screeching note and characteristic whistling call heard ; still present
on following morning (R. Cavill) but not reported subsequently.
RAVEN Corous corax
S. Five young reared, Brean Down (W.L.R.). Bred, Sand
Point, but eyrie, at unusually low level, destroyed by high spring
tide, May 4; two partly fledged young rescued and hand reared
by local boys (W.L.R.). Pair, Steep Holm, Apr. 3-6 and Sept. 4,
but no young seen (P.J.C.).
Buve ‘Tir Parus caeruleus
S. Exceptional movement reported from Long Ashton, last
week of Feb., when 30 caught and ringed in a garden trap on 25th
and a further 40 taken in same trap, 27th /28th, but rapid decrease
thereafter (M.A.W.). One, Steep Holm, Apr. 3, but none seen
on three following days or on Sept. 4 (P.J.C., R.H.P.). Seven
arrived at point of Brean Down on morning of Oct. 10, coming
in from direction of Steep Holm (B.K.B., H.D. et al.).
Wittow Tir Parus atricapillus
G. One in hedgerow, Little Stoke, Dec. 24, and again near
same spot on 27th ; plumage details and characteristic nasal call
clearly noted (D.M.C., R.S.C., H.H.D.).
DiprPER Cinclus cinclus
G. Pair present on R. Boyd, Wick, throughout year (D.R.H.).
S. Pair bred, but nest finally deserted, Monkton Combe
(A. G. Dixon). Nest with eggs, Stanton Drew, Apr. 18, 1953
(G. Bright).
Rinc Ouzet Turdus torquatus
G. Two, Stinchcombe Hill, Apr. 24, aad one, probably first
winter bird, Sept. 25 (D.R.H.).
S. One near Cadbury Camp, Apr. 24 (R.G.H.) and one,
female, Compton Bishop on 25th (P.J.M.N.). Male, Brean Down,
Apr. 18, 1953 (G. Bright).
WHEATEAR Oe0enanthe oenanthe
S. Noted in various Mendip localities but nesting again
reported only from Wavering Down, Compton Bishop, where
two pairs bred successfully (P.J.M.N.).
44 H. H. DAVIS AND P. J. CHADWICK
STONECHAT Saxicola torquata
S. Breeding reported only from Brean Down (W.L.R. ¢é¢ al.)
but pairs frequently noted in autumn and winter—chiefly in
coastal areas and at Chew Valley res. (various observers).
BLAck ReEDsTART Phoenicurus ochrurus
S. Two, females or immatures, Brean Down, Jan. 31 ; ad.
male and a female or immature, same place, mid-Nov. (E. G.
Holt).
GRASSHOPPER WARBLER Locustella naevia
G. Heard in breeding season nr. Wotton-under-Edge, and at
Inglestone Common, nr. Wickwar; Mangotsfield ; and Wick
(RS:C2 DURCH, THEW steals:
S. Breeding season records from Kenn Moor (R.A.) ; Leigh
Woods and Rowberrow Plantation, nr. Churchill (P.J.C.).
WHITETHROAT Sylvia communis
G. Date of bird trapped Mangotsfield in previous year (cf.
Proc. B.N.S., 1053, p- 401) should read’ Oct-ais
LrEssER WHITETHROAT Sylvia curruca
S. More plentiful than for several years in Long Ashton,
Combe Down and Saltford areas (G.E.C., B.K.).
Woop WarBLER- Pahylloscopus sibilatrix
G. Six pairs probably breeding in suitably wooded area of
9g?sq. kms. nr. Dursley (D.R.H.) but only six singing males recorded
—3 each, Berwick and Blaise Woods—in 143 sq. kms. (c. 5 sq.
kms. woodland) of south-west Glos. (survey by 17 observers).
S. ‘Ten singing males, Leigh Woods (in area of c. 1 sq. km.),
May 20 (P.J.C.). At least four, Gombe Down, May g (A. G.
Dixon).
Prep FLycaTcHER Muscicapa hypoleuca
G. Single male, Elberton, Apr. 25 (A.E.B.).
Rock Prpir Anthus spinoletta petrosus
G. and §. Well distributed in autumn and winter (presumably
this race) on Estuary and along Avon as far as Hotwells. On
Glos. side sixteen counted along Severn bank, Littleton to Oldbury,
INO 7) (Okla lea le
Grey WactaiL Motacilla cinerea
S. One in flight over Steep Holm, Sept. 4; first record for the
island-(G ECGs Pe: Rak.)
YELLOW WactaiL Motacilla flava flavissima
G. Breeding or breeding season records from Mangotsfield
(R.S.C.) and Berkeley Pill, Chipping Sodbury, Elberton, Hambrook,
Rangeworthy and Westerleigh (R.H.P.).
S. Single bird, Barrow Gurney resrs., on late date of Oct. 23
(M.A.W.) (cf. also Proc. B.N.S., 1951, p. 252).
ORNITHOLOGICAL NOTES 45
[BLUE-HEADED WactaiL Motacilla flava flava
G. Four birds with c. 35 M. f. flavissima on foreshore, Severn
Beach, Apr. 23, probably of this form ; reported by W.A.H. and
J. A. F. Wilkins who record that “‘ blue-grey heads with white
eyestripes and chins made them easily distinguishable from Yellow
Wagtails.”’
S. Probable record of one, a male, Saltford sewage farm,
May 15, 18 (P.J.C., B.K.) (see Rep. Som. Birds, 1954).]
RED-BACKED SHRIKE Lanius collurio
S. Breeding reported from Cheddar (N.W.) and Monkton
Combe (A. G. Dixon). Pair, Combe Down, Bath, May 15, 19
(J. R. Fairbank per B.K.).
STARLING Sturnus vulgaris
G. Large numbers, perhaps 15,000 or more, roosting in dense
thorn scrub, nr. Frenchay, Sept. to early Nov. (R.H.P.).
HAwFincH Coccothraustes coccothraustes
G. Two, Westridge Wood, N. Nibley, Jan. 31 (H.F.W.) and
two, Tortworth, Nov. 28 (M. A. Tullock per H.F.W.).
SISKIN Carduelis spinus
G. Party ofc. 15 in alders, Wotton-under-Edge, Jan. 5 (H.F.W.).
Three, Tortworth, Dec. 7 (M. A. Tullock per H.F.W.).
S. About 20, Hutton, Mar. 20 (W.L.R.).
LrEssER ReEDPOLL Carduelis flammea cabaret
G. Party of eight, Wotton-under-Edge, Mar. 8 (H.F.W.).
BuiirincH §$Pyrrhula pyrrhula
S. Reported from various widely separated localities as being
noticeably more plentiful than usual (G.E.C., P.J.C. e¢ al.).
CrossBiLL Loxta curvirostra
S. Small party of six, nr. Wrington, Jan. 11 (E. G. Holt).
Corn Buntinc Emberiza calandra
G. Reported in breeding season from Kingscote (M.A.B.,
D.R.H.) ; Downend (R.H.P.) ; Iron Acton (R.S.C.) ; main road,
Little Sodbury—Hawkesbury Upton (R.H.P.); Mangotsfield
(D.M.C. et al.) ; and at Marshfield, where substantial increase
noted—18 singing males being located in limited area, July 18
pe .C.).
S. Has increased, Saltford (Golf Course area), where three
males in song, May 13 (B.K. e al.). Up to four, Yoxter, Mendip,
various dates, July-Aug. (P.J.C., C. H. Fry).
Cirt Buntinc LEmberiza cirlus
G. Singing bird, Penpole Point, Shirehampton, July 22
gr. J.M.N.).
46 H. H. DAVIS AND P. J. CHADWICK
S. Bred, Bleadon (R.A.) and Sidcot (C. H. Fry); breeding —
season records from Cheddar (B.K.), Failand (P.J.C.) and Loxton
(G.E.C.).
House SPARROW Passer domesticus
S. One, female or immature, seen to alight at point of Brean
Down, Oct. 10, flew in from the Channel, apparently from direction
of Steep Holm (G.E.C., P.J.C., H.D.).
TREE SPARROW Passer montanus
G. Breeding season records from Little Sodbury—four ads,
Apr. 25 (D.M.C., R.S.C.) and Mangotsfield—five ads., May 13
(R.S.C.). Nest with six young in apple tree, Tockington, June
7a Oey Ome oO
S. Winter records include that of a party of seven found roosting
on rafter supporting overhang of outbuilding roof, Saltford Sewage
Farm, on two occasions in Dec. (B.K.).
47
Per rpOPrreRA NOTES
mes TOL DISTRICT. 1954
Byn©. os. El-BLaTHwaytT, M.A., F.R.E.S.
(Read in title to council, May 5, 1955. Received Feb. 2, 1955)
FTER an exceptionally cold spell at the end of January and
the beginning of February the weather improved to a certain
extent and the latter part of March and April were comparatively
fine. May was a moderate month only so far as weather was
concerned and was followed by the wettest summer and autumn
for many years.
On the whole the year was a bad one so far as the Lepidoptera
were concerned and particularly for migrating species.
I am most grateful to Messrs. C. L. Bell (C.L.B.), Dr. A. M.
Campbell (A.M.C.), G. H. W. Cruttwell (G.H.W.C.), H. S.
Damsell (H.S.D.), Dr. G. Hartill (G.H.) and R. Henderson (R.H.)
for sending me their records, some of which are included below
with a selection from my own records (C.S.H.B.).
Euphydryas aurinia Rott. (Marsh Fritillary). Larvae at Wickwar, Feb. 28,
(C.L.B.).
Limenitis camilla Linn. (sibylla Linn.) (White Admiral). Larvae at Wickwar,
May 13, (R.H.).
Callophrys rubi Linn. (Green Hairstreak). Var. with ochreous hindwings. Frome,
May 8, (G.H.W.C.).
Mimas tiliae Linn. (Lime Hawk). First seen May 8, (C.L.B.).. One brick red
var. at light, Bristol, (H.S.D.).
Acherontia atropos Linn. (Death’s-head Hawk). One larva taken at Hambrook
(Glos.), Aug. 15, (per G.H.).
Cerura hermelina Goeze (bifida Hubn.) (Poplar Kitten). Two males at light early
June, Bristol, (H.S.D.) : another at Weston, June 28, (C.S.H.B.).
Stauropus fagi Linn. (Lobster Prominent). One at light, June, Bristol, (H.S.D.) :
also at Weston, (C.S.H.B.).
Clostera curtula Linn. (Large Chocolate-tip). May, June and August at light,
Bristol, (H.S.D.) ; Cleeve, (A.M.C.) ; Weston, (C.S.H.B.).
Tethea ocularis Linn. (octogesima Hubn.) (Figure of Eighty). Fairly common
in June at light, Bristol, (H.S.D.).
Lymantria monacha Linn. (Black-arched Tussock). August, at light, Weston,
(CiS-H.B.).
Pseudoips bicolorana Fuessl. (quercana Schiff.) (Scarce Silver-lines). At light,
Weston, July-August, (C.S.H.B.).
Eilema complana Linn. (Scarce Footman). Fairly common at light, Weston,
July-August, (C.S.H.B.).
Apatele leporina Linn. (Miller). One at light, Bristol, July, (H.S.D.). One at
rest, Shapwick, Aug. 2, (C.S.H.B.).
Agrotis trux Hubn. (lunigera Steph.) (Crescent Dart). Several at light, Weston,
July, early Aug., (C.S.H.B.).
Amathes glareosa Esp. (Autumnal Rustic). At light Weston, Sept. 4, (C.S.H.B.).
Eurois occulta Linn. (Great Brocaded Rustic). At light, Frome, Aug. 24,
(G.H.W.C.).
Polia nitens Haw. (advena auctt.) (Pale-shining Arches), At sugar, Shapwick,
June 19, (C.S.H.B.).
48 c. Ss. H. BLATHWAYT
Hadena suasa Schiff. (dissimilis Knoch) (Dog’s-tooth). At sugar, Shapwick, —
June 19, (C.S.H.B.).
Hadena bombycina Hufn. (glauca Hubn.) (Glaucous Shears). At light, Weston, May
13, (G25 sH1.B.).
Eumichtis adusta Esp. (Dark Brocade). At light, June, Bristol, (H.S.D.).
Eumichtis lichenea Hubn. (Feathered Ranuncule). Common at light, September,
Weston, (C.S.H.B.).
Bombycia viminalis Fabr. (Minor Shoulder-knot). At light, Shapwick, July,
(C.S.H.B.).
Procus literosa Haw. (Rosy Minor). North Somerset Coast on Ragwort, Aug. 2.
(C.S.H.B.).
Brachionycha sphinx Hufn. (Common Sprawler). Several at light, Weston,
November, (C.S.H.B.).
Leucania pudorina Schiff. (impudens Hubn.) (Striped Wainscot). Fairly common
Shapwick and Clevedon, June, (C.S.H.B.).
Kenobia retusa Linn. (Double Kidney). At light, Shapwick, July 31; Weston,
Aug. 23, (C.S.H.B.).
Orthosia populeti Treits. (Lead-coloured Drab). Fairly common at sallow,
Clevedon in late March and early April, (C.S.H.B.).
Dasycampa rubiginea Fabr. (Dotted Chestnut). At Ivy. near Glastonbury, Oct. 23>
(C.S.H.B.).
Lithophane socia Rott. (Pale Pinion). At Ivy, Weston, and near Glastonbury,
Oct., (C.S.H.B.).
Cucullia chamomillae Schiff. (Chamomile Shark). At light, Frome, May 13,
(G.H.W.C.).
Brephos parthenias Linn. (Common Orange-underwing). Several at Clevedon
in late March, (C.S.H.B.).
Brephos notha Hubn. (Light Orange-underwing). Common around Aspen at
Clevedon, late March and April, (C.S.H.B.).
Sterrha dilutaria Hubn. (holosericata Dup.) (Silky Wave). A few on Durdham
Down, Bristol, July 10, (H.S.D.).
Lobophora halterata Hufn. (Large Seraphim). At light, Frome, May 29,
(G.H.W.C.). At rest Clevedon, June 7, (C.S.H.B.).
Thera variata Schiff. (Grey Spruce Carpet). At Ivy, near Glastonbury, Oct.,
(C.S.H.B.).
Lampropteryx otregiata Metc. (Metcalfe’s Carpet). At light, near Glastonbury,
july 31, (C. S20 B:): ,
Discoloxia blomeri Curt. (Blomer’s Rivulet). Fairly common at light, June and
early July, Weston, (C.S.H.B.).
Perizoma bifaciata Haw. (unifasciata Haw.) (Barred Rivulet). At light, Weston,
AUS. 3,0 (Costas).
Hydriomena ruberata Frey. (Ruddy Highflyer). At light, Weston, early June,
(C.S.H.B.).
Nyctosia obstipata Fabr. (fluwwiata Hubn.) (Narrow-barred Carpet). At light,
Weston, May 29, (C.S.H.B.).
Eupithecia fraxinata Crewe (Ash Pug). Several at flowers, North Somerset Coast,
June and September, (C.S.H.B.).
Angerona prunaria Linn. (Orange Thorn). At Wickwar, July 10, (R.H.).
Apocheima hispidaria Fabr. (Small Brindled-beauty). A male at rest, Feb. 20.
Several at light, March 6, near Glastonbury, (C.S.H.B.).
Margaronia unionalis Hubn. (Scarce Olive-tree Pearl). One at light, Weston,
Oct. 18, (C.S.H:B3).
Hepialus hecta Linn. (Golden Swift). Common at Clevedon, June 26, (C.S.H.B.).
Hepialus sylvina Linn. (Wood Swift). At light, Weston, August, (C.S.H.B.).
49
SOME RESULTS OF MARKING GULLS ON
STEEP HOLM
By R. H. PouLpING
(Read in title to Council, May 5, 1955. Received February 28, 1955)
INTRODUCTION
INCE 1946 a number of visits have been made to Steep Holm
for the purpose of marking gulls, resulting in the ringing of
1,714 individuals of the three breeding species, Great Black-backed
Gull (Larus marinus), Lesser Black-backed Gull (L. fuscus) and
Herring Gull (LZ. argentatus). ‘This paper summarises the 119g
recoveries reported to the British Trust for Ornithology during
the eight year experimental period to the end of 1954, and the
104 sight records obtained of plastic-marked birds. Owing to the
wide variation in the numbers ringed from year to year, to the
diversity of ring patterns used, and to a previously unsuspected
high ring loss, giving an undue bias in the recovery percentage
for first year birds, detailed statistical treatment of these returns
is avoided. For convenience, the term ‘ nestling ’ is used to include
the pre-flight stages of downy-young and fledgling-juvenile.
Landsborough Thomson (1924) in his summary of the recoveries
of Herring and Lesser Black-backed Gulls ringed as nestlings in
the north of Scotland and in the north of England, concludes
that the former species tends to wander southwards in autumn
within the limits of the British Isles but the latter migrate south-
wards along the coasts of France, Spain and Portugal to reach
the Mediterranean and North Africa. From more complete
information based on the recoveries of British ringed birds, Witherby
et al. in The Handbook (1938-41) state that the Herring Gull is more
or less sedentary but there is a tendency to disperse in any direction.
The majority do not move further than 200-300 miles although
a few have reached northern France from colonies in the north
of England. The 19 recoveries of Herring Gulls ringed as nestlings
on Lundy (N. Devon), published by the Lundy Field Society
(1946-53), include one from N. France (Finistére). The Handbook
suggests that the Great Black-backed Gull is probably largely
sedentary but some show dispersal movements and some migrate.
D
50 R. H. POULDING
Recoveries from Pembrokeshire show that a few reach Cornwall,
N.W. and W. France and N. Spain in their first winter.
Lying in the Bristol Channel, five miles from Lavernock Point
(Glam.) and three miles from the tip of Brean Down (Som.),
Steep Holm serves both as a breeding site and as a roost outside
the breeding season. No recent estimates have been made of the
breeding population but counts in 1949 suggested that there were
1,250 pairs of Herring Gulls, 750 pairs of Lesser Black-backs and
33 pairs of Great Black-backs. Since then the former species has
continued to displace the Lesser Black-backs from the once flourish-
ing colonies on the plateau and the Great Black-backs have in-
creased to 40 pairs or more. Maximum numbers at roost appear
to be reached from January to March after which the island is
abandoned by non-breeders until the early autumn. ‘There is a
considerable interchange between populations in feeding areas
linked with roosts at the Avon estuary (Som.), the estuary of the
Taff (Glam.) and Steart Island (Som.), and other dispersive
systems in Somerset and South Wales which use Steep Holm as a
central roost. These dispersive systems lie in the main within a
circle of 25 mile radius centred on Steep Holm. Gulls recovered
outside this area, referred to iater as the local dispersive zone, are
considered to have shown movement away from Steep Holm and
related dispersive systems.
METHODS
Details of the coloured plastic bands employed on nestlings have
previously been given (Poulding, 1951). By this method 358
Herring Gulls and 74 Lesser Black-backs received a colour band
in addition to the numbered aluminium ring on the opposite leg.
Serial numbers, 1 cm. in height, were placed on the plastic rings
used on Herring Gulls in 1952.
Butt-end type aluminium rings as supplied by the B.T.O. were
at first used for Herring and Lesser Black-backs but were later
replaced by clip rings normally placed on Great Black-backs. In
1954, a stronger butt-end ring, constructed from S.W.G. 16
aluminium strip, was introduced for the more permanent marking
of adults. During 1953 and 1954 ten adult Herring Gulls
were dyed on the upper-parts and tail with rhodamine in 30 per cent.
alcohol.
To conserve rings, the more advanced nestlings were usually
selected for marking, and to minimise errors arising from the
confusion of the two species, nestling Herring Gulls were largely
marked on the steeper slopes where this species predominated.
Most of the adults and immatures were taken at night with the aid
‘of strong torches and smaller numbers were caught by rocket net
(14), and by chance captures.
MARKING GULLS ON STEEP HOLM 51
RECOVERIES OF GREAT BLACK-BACKED GULLS
Of the 58 Great Black-backs marked, 48 were nestlings, nine
adults and one a third year bird. So far, six (10%), all ringed as
nestlings, have been recovered ; five occurred within the local
dispersive zone and one in France. One was found dead on Steep
Holm shortly after ringing ; one reported from Uphill (Som.) 10
days after ringing ; another caught in fishing nets at Weston-super-
Mare in the following November and one was shot on the coast at
Stolford, near Bridgwater in its second summer. Ohne in its third
summer was found on the bank of the River Severn at New Passage
(Glos.). The remaining return was reported from Finistére,
N. France (200 miles S.W.) in November, 16 months after ringing.
RECOVERIES OF LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULLS
The marking of 223 nestlings and 26 adults yielded 13 (5.2%)
recoveries, consisting of 10 from the former and three from the
latter. Four of the nestlings were found dead on Steep Holm
shortly after ringing, two were reported from Brean sands (Som.),
one and two months later, and another was recovered at
Southampton (Hants.) at the end of August—seven weeks after
ringing. ‘The three remaining returns of nestlings were reported
from abroad during their first year. These are listed in Table 1.
TABLE I
LEssER BLACK-BACKED GULLS RINGED AS NESTLINGS IN JUNE OR JULY
AND RECOVERED ABROAD
Recovery Place Distance from
Number date recovered Steep Holm
AD 2335 5.12.46 Portimao, Portugal 1,000 miles
AD 3434 4.12.48 Oporto, Portugal 800s,
408912 —. 5.53 Olhao, Portugal 1,000, 75,8
The three recoveries of adults trapped in March or April occurred
in the local dispersive zone during subsequent breeding seasons.
One was found dead near Cardiff (Glam.) two years and three
months after ringing; one was reported from Ogmore-by-Sea
(Glam.) and another from Kingston Seymour, near Clevedon
(Som.), both twelve months later.
Seventy-four nestlings were marked with red plastic rings in
1949 and nine visual records were later obtained. ‘The first colour
marked juvenile was seen along the New Cut, Bristol, in the first
week of the following September, and two, possibly three, frequented
this stretch of the Avon and the dock area until the end of October,
the last being recorded on the 27th. One was reported from
Barrow Gurney Reservoirs in September.
52 R. H. POULDING
RECOVERIES OF HERRING GULLS
The 100 recoveries (7°) obtained from the ringing of 1,401
Herring Gulls give a more detailed picture of the distribution of
this species, particularly of the initial juvenile dispersal, than the
few returns permitted for the preceding species. Of the total
marked, 973 were nestlings with a return of 8.2% (80), 67 were
in the age groups 1-4 years when caught, no recoveries of which
have so far been reported and 361 were adults yielding a return of
5-5% (20). Ninety-two visual records have been received of
plastic-marked gulls, many of which refer to the same individuals
reappearing in the same localities.
Herring Gulls marked as nestlings.
Of the 80 recoveries of Herring Gulls marked as nestlings, 73
(91%) were returned in the first year of life calculated from July 1
following hatching. Paynter (1947) in his analysis of 1,252
recoveries of the American Herring Gull (L. a. smithsonianus) ringed
on Kent Island (Mass.) gives 51.9% (650) as recovered in the
first year of life commencing from the time of hatching. Similar
figures given by Paludan (1951) suggest a first year recovery rate
of 64.5% based on 966 recoveries from Danish ringed Herring
Gull chicks, but in order to avoid the high percentage of recoveries
from chicks found dead in gulleries, he calculated the first year
from September 1. When corrected in this way, i.e. taking
September 1 as the commencement of the first year, the recovery
rate for Steep Holm ringed chicks is reduced to 86%. This
abnormally high first year recovery percentage may be due to a
large proportion of the ringed gulls losing the ring by direct removal
or corrosion (Poulding, 1954) resulting in fewer recoveries in later
years.
TABLE II
DISTRIBUTION OF RECOVERIES OF HERRING GULLS RINGED AS NESTLINGS
Within the Local Outside the Local
Dispersive Zone Dispersive Zone
Interval Steep England
after ringing | Holm Som. Glos. Glam. Mon.| and Wales France
o-3 months QI 28 — 7 — I =
3-6 months _ I 3 I — I -
6-12 months 2 3 I 2 I - I
I I I I - 2 I
I-5 years
The distribution of recoveries at various time intervals in relation
to the local dispersive zone is shown in Table II. The majority
occurred on or near the coast, exceptions being several from the
Bristol area and one in its third summer found dead near Merthyr
Tydfil (Glam.), 20 miles inland. Gulls found dead on Steep
MARKING GULLS ON STEEP HOLM 53
Holm shortly after ringing, or later found as skeletons, were pre-
sumed never to have left the island and are included in the 0-3
months interval after ringing. Two first year birds, partially
decomposed, were found at a roosting site on the island in the
March following ringing, and a worn, recently discarded ring
placed three years previously on a nestling, was found also in March
in a similar position. It is noteworthy that 28 of the returns in the
initial three months dispersal period occurred along the Somerset
coast as compared with seven from Glamorgan. ‘This apparent
preference for the former may be due to its closer proximity to the
island and not to tidal movements which, off Steep Holm, are to
the north-east or south-west. Nineteen of the 28 Somerset re-
coveries in this period occurred on the Brean and Weston-super-
Mare coast adjoining Brean Down, the nearest point on the main-
land to the island.
Subsequently to the initial dispersal phase, recoveries from the
Welsh side of the Bristol Channel included single returns from
Aberthaw, Barry (Glam.), Newport (Mon.) and three from
Cardiff (Glam.). Returns from the Somerset side included one
from Bridgwater, one from Lympsham, near Weston-super-Mare,
two from near Portishead and three from Avonmouth (Glos.).
Inland records from the Bristol area included returns from the
Bristol Docks (2), Westbury-on-Trym (1) and a Dundry housing
estate (1). No recoveries of gulls more than five years after
ringing have so far been reported.
Six Herring Gulls, 7.5°, of the recoveries from ringed nestlings,
show a movement extending beyond the local dispersive zone ;
four were recovered from the South Coast of England and two from
France. ‘These are listed in Table III. In addition, a plastic
marked Herring Gull was seen at Ilfracombe, N. Devon, early
in the November following ringing.
TABLE III
HERRING GULLS RINGED AS NESTLINGS AND RECOVERED OUTSIDE THE
Loca. DIsPERSIVE ZONE
Date Date
Number ringed recovered Place of recovery
AN 9087 28.6.49 22.9.49 Berry Head, 8S. Devon
408956 8.7.52 4.12.52 Devonport
AD 2333 30.6.46 1.8.49 Weymouth, Dorset
407703 18.6.50 21.11.53 Brighton, Sussex
406829 26.6.49 —.11.50 St. Vaast-la~-Hougue, Marche, N. France
408879 10.7.52 8.1.53 Roz-sur-Couesnon, nr. Dol, N. France
These records indicate a small southward movement away from
the local dispersive zone, probably confined to a coastal movement
54 R. H. POULDING
around the south-western peninsula to the South Coast, and thence
to N. France. The recoveries from Weymouth (Dorset) and
Brighton (Sussex) of birds in their fourth year, suggest that Herring
Gulls, showing this tendency to move away, may not return to
breed, but remain attached to more distant groups. It is interesting
to note that these distant recoveries have all occurred south of the
local dispersive zone. ‘The two recoveries from France have been
accepted by the Bird Ringing Committee but a third, near the
Gironde estuary in its second winter, has been rejected on the
grounds that it is outside the known southern limit of movements
of British ringed Herring Gulls, and was, in all probability, a
Lesser Black-back.
Of the 92 visual records obtained from plastic-marked nestlings
all, except the one reported from Ilfracombe, occurred within the
local dispersive zone. Most of these records came from the docks
and adjoining river in the centre of Bristol where a number of
observers made regular searches for these birds. The highest
concentration reported was of three among 60 first winter Herring
Gulls feeding along the New Cut in the November following
marking. Plastic marked gulls in all stages of immaturity, from
juvenile to adult, have frequently been observed in this stretch of
the River Avon. Since it was first noticed in the November
following ringing, a gull marked with green plastic has been seen
regularly in the same river stretch for three years. Colour marked
gulls have also been reported from Cardiff and Barry (Glam.),
Chepstow (Mon.), Weston-super-Mare, Barrow Gurney and
Cheddar reservoirs (Som.), Avonmouth and Steep Holm. An
immature was seen with roosting gulls on Steep Holm in the April
following marking and another in adult plumage was seen at the
same place in March, nearly four years after marking.
Herring Gulls ringed as adults.
Twenty (5.5%) of the 361 adults marked have so far been
recovered; ten were retrapped on Steep Holm at the commence-
ment of the breeding season a year later ; nine occurred within the
local dispersive zone and one beyond. The latter return was
reported from Pendine Sands (Carm.), 50 miles to the north-west,
nearly three years after marking. ‘This is the only recovery from
aay of the three species which indicates any tendency to move in a
northerly direction outside the local dispersive zone.
Of those occurring within the local dispersive zone, two were
reported from Glamorgan (Barry and Aberthaw), one from
Monmouth, five from Somerset, and one from the Bristol Docks.
Four of the Somerset returns were reported from the Weston area
and one was reported from Luxhay Reservoir, near Taunton, 15
miles inland.
MARKING GULLS ON STEEP HOLM 5
Sight records of dyed adults were reported from the Brean Down
area in April, from Edington Burtle and Westhay (mid-Somerset)
and Queens Sedgemoor between Glastonbury and Wells, 14 miles
from the coast, in April and May.
CONCLUSIONS
1. ‘The few recoveries of Great Black-backs, ringed as nestlings,
suggest that the majority are sedentary within the local dispersive
zone, but a single recovery from France indicates that some migrate.
This is in agreement with the movements given for this species in
The Handbook.
2. Lesser Black-backs, ringed as nestlings, conform to the known
pattern of juvenile dispersal, and subsequent migration by way of
the Atlantic coast of Europe. Marked juveniles remained in the
Bristol area until the end of October. Trapped adults were
reported in the local dispersive zone in later breeding seasons.
3. Herring Gulls, marked as nestlings, disperse to the adjacent
coasts of the Bristol Channel with a marked preference for Somerset,
where the greatest concentration occurred in the Brean Down area.
A small proportion, 7.5°% showed a southward movement beyond
-the local dispersive zone to the South Coast and N. France. Further
recoveries and sight records of plastic-marked gulls, up to five
years after ringing, indicate that the majority are sedentary,
remaining attached to local dispersive systems. Herring Gulls
marked as adults show little movement, the furthest reported being
one from the Carmarthenshire coast, 50 miles to the N.W.
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
I am indebted to Messrs. A. E. Billett, P. J. Chadwick and
D. M. and R. 8. Cormack for permitting me to include recoveries
of gulls ringed by them, and to members of the Ornithological
Section for many sight records of plastic marked gulls. Mr.
D. H. Perrett of the Mid-Somerset Naturalist Society kindly
undertook the collection of records of dyed gulls in that area.
REFERENCES
Landsborough Thomson, A. (1924). The migration of the
Herring Gull and Lesser Black-backed Gull: results of the
marking method. Brit. Birds 18, 34-44.
Paludan, K. (1951). Contributions to the breeding biology of
Larus argentatus and Larus fuscus. Vidensk. Medd. Naturh. Foren.
Kbh. 114, 1-128.
Paynter, R. A. (1947). The fate of banded Kent Island Herring
Gulls. Bird Banding 14, 101-115.
56 R. H. POULDING
Poulding, R. H. (1951). ‘The use of extruded plastic for colour
marking. Brit. Birds 44, 126-127.
—— (1954). Loss of rings by marked Herring Gulls. Bird
Study 1, 37-40.
Witherby, H. F. et al. (1938-41). The Handbook of British Birds.
London.
o7
THE TRIASSIC SANDSTONES OF THE
BRISTOL REGION
By C. D. OxrirrR, M.Sc., F.G.S.
(Read in title to Council, May 5, 1955. Received March 5, 1955)
INTRODUCTION
L'TTHOUGH a great deal of work has been carried out on the
sedimentary petrology of the Triassic of many parts of the
British Isles, the Triassic deposits of the Bristol region have received
little attention.
The main features of the Bristol Trias are well known, but in
most accounts it is considered mainly in terms of conglomerate or
breccia on the one hand, and marls on the other, and little reference
is made to the presence of sandstones and other lithological types.
Occurrences of calcareous sandstones were recorded, however,
by Woodward (1887) and Lloyd Morgan and Reynolds (1898),
and sandstones have been reported in borehole records, as for
instance by Trueman (1935) and Moore (1939), and in descriptions
of temporary exposures, as for instance by Kellaway (1934).
It has been remarked by several authors that the Keuper deposits
are more arenaceous in the Bristol region than in the surrounding
area, but few have tried to account for this distribution. Richardson
(1910), after noting the distribution of sandstones, wrote : ‘‘ This
change in lithic structure in the Bristol area is one that might
have been expected, for beds of Millstone Grit and Old Red
Sandstone must have been exposed when the Triassic rocks were
being accumulated. ...’’ Thus he implied that the Triassic
sandstones were derived from the underlying Old Red Sandstone
and Millstone Grit. Kellaway and Welch (1948), on the other
hand, wrote: ‘“‘ Where the Dolomitic Conglomerate is absent
and the Red Marls overlie the Coal Measures, a vivid red sandstone
commonly forms the base of the New Red Sandstone.’? ‘Thus the
Triassic sandstones are associated with the underlying Coal
Measures.
58 Cc. De OLLIER
DESCRIPTION OF THE SANDSTONES
1. GRain S1zE DISTRIBUTION
Seventeen mechanical analyses were carried out to determine
the grain size distribution of the sandstones. ‘The analyses were
performed by sieving, using Endecott’s (Filters) Ltd. 3-in. brass
standard test sieves based on the A.S.T.M. scale at 4/2 intervals.
The specimens were disaggregated usually by crushing in an iron
mortar and sampled by repeated quartering ; where the amount
of carbonate cement was large, samples were disaggregated by
boiling in dilute hydrochloric acid. It was found that 50 gm. of
material was a convenient quantity for the analyses. ‘The results
were plotted as cumulative frequency curves, using the ¢ notation
(Krumbein, 1936) in order to use a statistical treatment in describing
the features of the distribution.
The median, M ¢, was used to express the average grain size.
The quartile deviation, QD 4, was used to indicate the degree
of scatter of the curves. The conventional sorting coefficient,
So, which is the geometrical quartile deviation, was also calculated.
The quartile skewness, SkQ ¢, was used to describe the asymmetry
of the curves. ‘These measures and their significance are described
in many textbooks of sedimentary petrology, such as Krumbein
and Pettijohn (1939). Two typical cumulative frequency curves
are shown in Fig. 1.
Fic. 1. TyPiIcAL CUMULATIVE FREQUENCY CURVES.
100
90
80
70
(8) o 60
s i=
o a
3 2
5 S
E € 40
3 GRAPH | 2 GRAPH 2
30
SPECIMEN | SPECIMEN 2
20
10
-l () \ 2 3 4 ® -| 0 \ 2 3 4 ®
Graph 1, Specimen 1, Red sandstone from Horsefair, Bristol. Sample dis-
aggregated by crushing in mortar. The kink at about 34 marks the
discontinuity between the curves of the detrital and the cementing material.
Graph 2, Specimen 2, Red sandstone from Eastville Park, Bristol. Sample
disaggregated by boiling in hydrochloric acid. The curve is smooth and
of simple sygmoidal shape.
TRIASSIC SANDSTONES 59
The results of the mechanical analyses are given in Table 1
and show that all the specimens analysed have very similar grain
size distributions. The average median, M4, is 2.1, which
corresponds to an aperture of just under 0.25 mm. The lowest
M ¢ is 1.8 and the largest is 2.5 (corresponding to 0.3 mm. and
0.15 mm., respectively) ; the total range of the median is therefore
less than one Wentworth unit.
TABLE 1
REsuLTs OF MECHANICAL ANALYSES
Specimen M¢ Qi Q3 QD¢ So SkO¢
I 2.05 17.0 2.35 0.32 1.25 |—0.02
2 2.05 1.65 2.35 0.35 1.25 |—0.05
3 1.85 1.55 2.25 0.35 1.25 0.05
4 2.05 1.70 2.45 0.37 1.30 |—0.02
5 1.90 170 2.20 0.25 1.20 0.05
6 1.80 1.30 2.30 0.45 1.35 |—0.02
7 1.95 1.55 2.25 0.35 1.25 |—0.05
8 2.00 1.40 2.35 0.45 1.35 |—0.12
9 ; 1.25 0.05
The quartile deviation, QD ¢, is small in all cases, ranging from
0.25 to 0.8, which indicates good sorting. The So values also
indicate good sorting, for the highest value of So obtained was
only 1.75, and a value below 2.5 indicates a well-sorted sediment.
The skewness is in most cases very small, but it is notable that
it is largest in samples of finest grain, and where large it is always
positive, that is skewed towards the smaller material. The explana-
tion of this positive skewness in the fine grained samples is the
presence of fine grained cementing material, which is not sorted
like the detrital material. The effect of unsorted cementing
material on the cumulative frequency curve is shown usually
at about 3 ¢ in the form of a kink on an otherwise smooth and
symmetrical curve (Fig. 1, Graph 1).
It is evident from the analyses that the sandstones are very well
sorted, indicating most probably the action of currents. The grain
size distributions of the sands are similar to those obtained by other
workers for beach and wind deposits (see for example Carroll, 1939).
60 Cc. D. OLLIER
2. MINERAL CONTENT
Mineral determination was carried out on 41 samples of Triassic
sandstones collected in the Clevedon—Portishead area, Cromhall,
Tytherington, Chipping Sodbury, Chew Stoke, Hunstrete, Pensford,
and other localities in the Bristol region.
The heavy mineral constituents were concentrated by means
of heavy liquids (mainly bromoform), but panning, the centrifuge,
and an experimental model of a mechanical vanning shovel
designed by Dr. C. R. Burch were used to assist the separation in
certain instances. For separations of small quantities, the evapor-
ating dish method was favoured (Carroll, 1938).
The minerals were examined by means of ordinary grain mounts
and thin sections, the immersion method, X-ray diffraction analysis,
polished surfaces of mineral grains and rocks, and measurements
of radioactivity.
Because of the great abundance of opaque constituents in the
heavy mineral assemblages, it was decided to examine them by
means of ore-microscopy. ‘The grains were mounted in cylindrical
blocks of ‘ Marco Resin’, ground and polished, and the surfaces
examined by reflected polarised light.
DESCRIPTION OF MINERALS.
Non-opaque constituents.—Quartz. Quartz, the commonest mineral
in the sandstones, occurs in all grain sizes up to several millimetres
across. ‘There are several varieties, none of which appears to be
particularly dominant in any grain size. Some grains show
complete extinction, and others exhibit strain-shadow extinction.
A certain number of the grains are composite, including quartzite,
vein quartz, and metamorphic quartz. Many of the larger grains
of quartz are well rounded, and some grains appear to be of the
millet-seed type; these occur in the sandstones along the
Portishead—Clevedon ridge. The smaller grains are less rounded,
and the very small grains, particularly those occurring in the marly
sandstones, are very angular. Inclusions of minerals, bubbles and
dust occur in the quartz and may occasionally show orient-
ation.
Feldspar. The feldspars represented are microcline, sodic plagio-
clase and orthoclase, but they are not common. ‘The occurrence
is typically in rounded, iron-stained grains, but several examples
were found of an original detrital grain of plagioclase with a
secondary growth of clear, more sodic feldspar of authigenic origin ;
the authigenic feldspar shows good crystal outlines (Pl. 1, Fig. 1)
and may be compared with that described by Reynolds (1929).
TRIASSIC SANDSTONES 61
Calcite. Calcite occurs sometimes as detrital grains, which are
distinguished in thin section by the presence of a ‘ brown ring’
which indicates ferruginous staining of an original detrital grain
of calcite. ‘The main role of calcite, however, is as a cementing
material, of varying degrees of coarseness. Occasionally there is
segregation of calcite into patches, giving rise to lustre-mottling
and nodule formation.
Dolomite. Dolomite occurs in two ways—scattered in an
essentially calcareous matrix or constituting the entire matrix.
In the former case the dolomite displays small rhombohedral
outlines and appears to be of secondary origin. In the latter case
the dolomite is finely granular and appears to be of primary origin ;
it is often extremely abundant and may supersede the quartz as
the main rock forming mineral, giving rise to sandy dolomitic
limestones.
Fic. 2. ZIRCON GRAINS FROM ‘TRIASSIC SANDSTONES, BRISTOL REGION (x200).
Kircon. Zircon occurs as small grains which are usually moder-
ately rounded, although some grains have very perfect crystal form,
and others are extremely rounded (Fig. 2). Most of the zircon
grains are practically colourless, but a few grains of purple zircon
| were found, and rare instances of zoning were noted. Often the
zircons contain inclusions of minerals, sometimes aligned along or
at right angles to the optic axis ; sheets of included bubbles were
| seen in one grain. The radioactivity of the zircons was assessed
by means of Nuclear Research Emulsions, and it was found that
there are two types of grains present. One type has an emission
of about 10 alpha particles per grain in 20 days, and the other
emits over 100 alpha particles per grain in 20 days. The detailed
measurements will be discussed elsewhere.
62 Cc. D. OLLIER
Garnet. Garnet occurs as irregular, but roughly equidimensional
grains with typical hackly fracture (Fig. 3). They are colourless
and completely isotropic except in rare cases where there is
anomalous incomplete extinction. Rhombohedral cleavage is
sometimes seen. X-ray diffraction analysis showed the garnet to
be almandine.
Tourmaline. ‘Tourmaline occurs usually as rectangular, platy
grains (Fig. 3), but occasionally elliptical and well rounded outlines
were seen. Different types of tourmaline may be distinguished by
their pleochroic colours, mostly in brown, green and yellow tints ;
indigo, blue and mauve tints were seen in a very small number of
samples.
Apatite. Apatite occurs as clear, colourless, rounded laths with
sometimes a mottled appearance or indistinct striations (Fig. 3).
Rutile. Rutile occurs usually as irregular grains or rounded
prisms, occasionally euhedral, in yellow, red and almost opaque
varieties, sometimes exhibiting pleochroism (Fig. 3). Distinct
cleavage and other markings may occasionally be seen.
Fic. 3.—TypPICAL HEAVY MINERALS FROM TRIASSIC SANDSTONES, BRISTOL
REGION. (a, apatite, g, garnet, 7, rutile, ¢, tourmaline; x100).
Muscovite. The only type of mica in the Triassic sandstones is
muscovite, which occurs as colourless flakes.
Monazite. Monazite occurs as well rounded yellow grains.
TRIASSIC SANDSTONES 63
Barite and celestine. Minerals of this type occur at several
localities. Pure barite and celestine occur, but flame tests and
refractive index determinations often indicate a mineral that is
neither pure barite nor pure celestine, but is in the barito-celestine
group. ‘The grains occur as dirty ragged flakes of low birefringence.
Minor Constituents. Chlorite, blue anatase, brookite, fluorite, staurolite,
topaz and sphene are very rare constituents, and only a few of each
have been found in the course of the whole investigation.
Opaque Constituents—-Magnetite. Magnetite occurs as rounded
grains which are black with a biuish tinge in reflected light. ‘The
mineral has been found in a number of specimens but is never
plentiful.
Ilmenite. Rounded grains have been determined as ilmenite
when white alteration products were seen on the grains. ‘The
mineral is rare and has been found in only a few samples.
Pyrite. A few irregular grains which in reflected light have a
tarnished yellow metallic lustre have been found in specimens
from the Clevedon district.
Leucoxene. Leucoxene has been seen as an alteration product
of ilmenite, and also as lozenge shaped grains which are white in
reflected light. The latter only occur in the Clevedon district.
Goethite. The great majority of opaque grains were proved by
X-ray diffraction analysis to be goethite. The grains are well
rounded and in reflected light appear yellow, orange, or brown-
black, depending upon the presence of a coating of limonite.
Under the ore microscope, it is seen that the main part of each
grain has the characteristic reflectivity of goethite, but there are
variations in the texture. ‘The mineral is sometimes compact, but
more often it shows a spongy texture indicating a poorer degree of
crystallinity (Pl 1, Fig. 2). A number of grains show evidence of
original deposition by cavity filling ; banding takes place either
parallel to the sides of the original cavity or in the form of comb-
Biructure (Pl. 1, Fig. 4) or colloform banding (PI. 1, Fig. 3).
Secondary replacement may take place in addition, and it appears
that magnetite may replace goethite in thin, irregular bands
(Pl. 1, Fig. 4). The external shape of the grains when considered
in relationship to the internal structure clearly suggests that the
grains are not concretions, but are of detrital origin.
RELATIVE ABUNDANCE OF THE MINERAL CONSTITUENTS.
Next to quartz, calcite followed by dolomite are the commonest
constituents, usually forming the cementing material of the
64 Cc. OLLIER
sandstones ;_ by increase of the carbonate content sandstones pass into
sandy limestones and dolomitic limestones. The feldspars are
uncommon. ‘The heavy mineral assemblage is notable for the
great abundance of goethite and limonite, which in some samples
must compose over 90% of the heavy minerals. The remaining
opaque constituents, magnetite, ilmenite, pyrite and leucoxene,
are uncommon. Of the non-opaque constituents zircon is the
commonest mineral, and garnet, rutile, apatite and tourmaline
are common ; muscovite and monazite occur to a much smaller
extent, and all the other minerals recorded (barite, celestine,
chlorite, fluorite, staurolite, anatase, brookite, topaz, sphene) have
been found very sparingly during the course of the investigation.
Two systematic counts were made of heavy minerals, and the
results are shown in Table 2. The count of Specimen 1 was from
a separation performed on a mechanical vanning shovel, which
probably gives a low count for the opaques, and Specimen 4 is
also poor in opaques compared with most samples of Triassic
sandstone. No apatite occurs in the count in Specimen 4 because
the sample had previously been treated with acid to remove
calcite.
TABLE 2
RELATIVE PERCENTAGE OF HEAvy MINERALS
Red sandstone, Horsefair, Banded white sandstone,
Bristol (Specimen 1) Chew Stoke (Specimen 4) |
opaques Ms ae opaques
zircon Me es zircon
rutile es ie garnet
tourmaline .. oe rutile ..
garnet ws ls tourmaline
apatite oe Le monazite
monazite .. Re 5 muscovite
3, LITHOLOGY
It has already been shown that the Triassic sandstones of the
Bristol region are uniform in grain-size distribution and sorting.
There is, however, considerable variation in the type of grains and
the nature and amount of cementation present.
Although most grains are of quartz, some samples contain
appreciable quantities of grains of limestone, grains of re-worked
sandy marl, detrital calcite grains and opaque constituents.
Silicified crinoid ossicles have been found in one specimen.
TRIASSIC SANDSTONES 65
The cementing material is usually calcite, which may occur as
large crystals enclosing quartz grains, as moderate sized grains
between quartz grains, or as a mass of small or minute grains,
but in the Triassic sandstones which occur along the Portishead—
Clevedon ridge dolomite is the cementing mineral, and occurs as
very small perfect rhombohedra. Iron oxides play only a small
part in the cementation, usually cementing very small grains, and
in only small patches.
The amount of cementing material present is very variable. In
thin section it is seen that in some samples the quartz grains are
in contact with one another, leaving only small interstices to be
filled with cement, while in others the rock consists largely of carbon-
ate, with quartz grains set in it. The amount of carbonate has
has been assessed for a number of samples, and was found to vary
from 4% to 74%.
The main lithological types of sandstones and associated types
present in the Bristol Trias are as follows :—
(a) Calcite sandstone. ‘This is the commonest type of Triassic
sandstone in the Bristol region, and consists of sand grains in contact
with one another and cemented by calcite. The rocks were
originally deposited as well sorted sands, and the interstices were
later filled by calcite (Pl. 1, Fig. 5). The amount of cementing
material is variable, as is apparent from the varying friability of
the sandstones. ‘The sandstones are often rich in iron oxides,
which impart to the rock a red or brown colour ;_ the individual
grains have a ferruginous coating.
By increase in the relative amount of the cementing material,
the sandstone passes into sandy limestone. The quartz grains are
often angular, though the larger grains are usually rounded, and
are not in contact with one another (Pl. 1, Fig. 6), indicating that
chemical deposition of the calcium carbonate took place con-
currently with deposition of the sand grains. The cementing
calcite may show varying degrees of granularity, and the rocks
may be red, green or grey in colour.
The true calcite-cemented sandstones are largely restricted to
deposits in the proximity of the Coal Measures. The basal
deposit of the Trias over Coal Measure sandstones is often this
type of rock, and bands of it occur in the marls above. Often
other types of lithology are associated with it, as at Chew Stoke,
where marls, sandy marls, limestone sandstones and true calcite-
cemented sandstones all occur together. The calcite variety of
sandy limestone often occurs in bands in the marls, but it also occurs
in the Dolomitic Conglomerate as at Tytherington, where it
forms the basal deposit of the Trias resting on the Carboniferous
Limestone.
E
66 Cc. D. OLLIER
(b) Dolomite sandstone. Dolomite sandstones are less common
than calcite sandstones and consist of well rounded sand grains
mutually in contact with very fine-grained dolomite in the inter-
stices. [he rocks are usually poor in iron oxides, and may be
yellow, white or grey in colour.
More common, however, are dolomitic sandy limestones which
consist of isolated sand grains embedded in very fine-grained
dolomite, the latter representing original chemical precipitation of
dolomite.
The dolomite cemented true sandstone, and the dolomitic variety
of sandy limestone seem to be confined to layers within the
Dolomitic Conglomerate overlying the Old Red Sandstone along
the Portishead—Clevedon ridge.
The fine-grained (marls and clays) and coarse-grained (breccias
and conglomerates) deposits were omitted from the present in-
vestigation. However an analysis of a number of samples of
Dolomitic Conglomerate indicated a local origin for the material.
4. SEDIMENTARY STRUCTURES IN THE SANDSTONES
The sandstones are often massive, with widely spaced bedding
planes, but thin bedded sandstones also occur. Banding may be
due to variations in grain size as seen, for example, at Chew Magna,
or to an alternation of well cemented and poorly cemented sand
layers about one millimetre thick, as at Chew Stoke.
Sedimentary structures other than banding are not common,
but some have been observed, particularly in the Chew Stoke area.
These include symmetrical ripple marks, asymmetrical wave marks,
sun cracks and graded bedding, the last named occurring on only
a small scale in beds up to about 4 cm. thick. These structures
indicate a shallow-water environment.
The sandstones quite frequently contain cavities, which in some
cases are due to the solution of Limestone pebbles, but in others
were probably formed during diagenesis. In one specimen barite
was deposited on the floor of the cavities. On weathering some
rocks exhibit cavities due to an irregular distribution of the cement-
ing material.
ORIGIN OF THE SANDSTONES
In the Bristol area the Trias may rest unconformably on the
Old Red Sandstone, the Carboniferous Limestone and the Coal
Measures, each of which could have contributed to the formation
of sandstones. In order to investigate the source rocks of the
Trias its heavy mineral content was compared with that of the
older deposits. ‘The Old Red Sandstone has been described by
TRIASSIC SANDSTONES 67
Wallis (1927), the Carboniferous Limestone by Wethered (1888)
and Coysh (1927), and their results are summarized in Table 3.
A brief account of the heavy minerals of the Pennant sandstones
was given by Boswell (1924) who listed the following as the
characteristic minerals of the Pennant Series of the Bristol district :
garnet, chlorite, green hornblende, muscovite, brown tourmaline,
rutile, zircon, ilmenite, kyanite (rare), anatase, cordierite. As
there is little indication of the relative abundance of these minerals
the list is not included in Table 3. Three samples of Coal Measure
sandstone (from Stapleton and St. Anne’s Park) which were
analysed in this investigation contained the heavy minerals listed
in Table 3. A number of minerals are present in Boswell’s list
which are not found in the Trias, but as these were not found in
the new analyses of Coal Measure sandstones, they may be present
in only very small amounts.
TABLE 3
COMPARATIVE TABLE OF HEAvy MINERALS
Old Red Carboniferous | Coal Measures Trias
Sandstone Limestone Sandstone Sandstone
(Wallis, (Coysh, (present (present
1927) 1927) investigation) | investigation)
apatite ilmenite goethite goethite
abundant leucoxene magnetite zircon limonite
zircon pyrite
tourmaline zircon garnet zircon
pyrite tourmaline muscovite garnet
ilmenite rutile rutile
common limonite tourmaline
magnetite apatite
haematite muscovite
barite
rutile muscovite ilmenite magnetite
magnetite ilmenite
uncommon tourmaline celestine
rutile monazite
chlorite
muscovite staurolite staurolite pyrite
biotite fluorite leucoxene
garnet fluorite
rare staurolite
anatase
brookite
topaz
sphene
68 Cc. D. OLLIER
It is seen from Table 3 that the non-opaque minerals, zircon,
garnet, rutile and tourmaline, occur in the Old Red Sandstone
and in the Coal Measures, and all but garnet occur in the Carboni-
ferous Limestone, but the relative abundances are different. ‘The
non-opaque heavy minerals are often scarce in the Trias, and may
have been derived from any of these formations. However, the
great abundance of goethite and the common occurrence of garnet
in the Trias suggests that the Coal Measures have made a larger
contribution to the Triassic sandstones than have the Old Red
Sandstone and the Carboniferous Limestone, although these have
certainly made some contribution. There is no reason to believe
that the sandstones could not be locally derived, and there are
no minerals present which distinctly indicate a distant source.
The calcite type of sandstones were formed in the vicinity of
Coal Measure sandstones, and were probably basal deposits.
Material would sometimes be carried into regions of marl deposi-
tion, and if this were deposited rapidly a band of true sandstones
would be formed. If on the other hand the detrital deposition
was slow, a sandy marl or sandy limestone would be formed.
The dolomite sandstones and sandy limestones are restricted
to occurrences associated with the Dolomitic Conglomerate over-
lying Old Red Sandstone along the Portishead-Clevedon ridge.
No evidence has been found which indicates why dolomite rather
than calcite was precipitated in that region.
The distribution of lithological types and the manner in which
they are related to the underlying rock suggests, like the evidence
of the heavy minerals, that the sandstones are of local origin.
In mode of origin and lithology, the Keuper deposits of the Bristol
region appear similar to those of North West Somerset (Thomas,
1940) and South Wales (Pringle and George, 1948).
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The present paper contains the results of an investigation carried
out in the Department of Geology in the University of Bristol,
and I wish to express my gratitude to all who have helped me in
the course of the work. In particular my thanks are due to
Dr. I. S. Loupekine for much assistance during the course of the
investigation; to Mr. I. H. Ford for help with the ore-microscopy
and radioactivity work ; to Dr. C. R. Burch for help in mineral
separation ; and to Mr. E. W. Seavill for the photographs.
REFERENCES
Boswell, P. G. H. (1924). ‘The Petrography of the Sands of the
Upper Lias, and Lower Inferior Oolite in the West of England.
Geol. Mag., 61, 246-264.
TRIASSIC SANDSTONES 69
Carroll, D. (1938). Recording the Results of Heavy Mineral
Analyses. Jour. Sed. Pet., 8, 3-9.
—— (1939). Movement of Sand by Wind. Geol. Mag., 76,
6-23.
Coysh, A. W. (1927). The Petrology of the Avonian Rocks at
Sodbury, Gloucestershire. Geol. Mag., 64, 167-176.
Kellaway, G. A. (1934). Notes on a Section near West Town
Lane, Brislington, Bristol. Proc. Bristol Nat. Soc., 7, 565-567.
——— and Welch, F. B. A. (1948). Bristol and Gloucester District.
London (H.M.S.O.).
Krumbein, W. C. (1936). Application of Logarithmic Moments
to Size Frequency Distribution of Sediments. Jour. Sed. Pet.,
6, 35-47.
and Pettijohn, F. J. (1939). Manual of Sedimentary Petrography,
New York.
Moore, L. R. (1939). On a Recent Boring Reaching the Coal
Measures at Chew Stoke, near Bristol. Proc. Bristol Nat. Soc.,
9g, 66-68.
Morgan, C. L. and Reynolds, $. H. (1898). ‘Triassic Deposits at
Emborough. Proc. Bristol Nat. Soc., 9, 109-117.
Pringle, J. and George, T. N. (1948). South Wales. London
(H.M.S.O.).
Reynolds, D. L. (1929). Some New Occurrences of Authigenic
Potash Feldspar. Geol. Mag., 66, 390-399.
Richardson, L. (1910). The Neozoic Rocks of Gloucestershire
and Somerset. Chapter X in Geology in the Field. London.
Thomas, A. N. (1940). The ‘Triassic Rocks of North West
Somerset. Proc. Geol. Assoc., 51, I-43.
Trueman, A. E. (1935). Note on a Boring near Winford, Somerset
Proc. Bristol Nat. Soc., 7, 121-123.
Wallis, F. S. (1927). The Old Red Sandstone of the Bristol
District. Quart. Four. Geol. Soc., 83, 760-786.
Wethered, E. (1888). On Insoluble Residues obtained from the
Carboniferous Limestone Series at Clifton. Quart. Four. Geol.
Soc., 44, 186-199.
Woodward, E. B. (1887). The Geology of England and Wales.
London.
70
Cc. D. OLLIER
EXPLANATION OF PLATE I
Photomicrographs of structures and textures in Triassic sandstones, Bristol
region.
Fig.
Fig. 2
Fig.
Fig.
Fig.
Fig.
2
Thin-section of sandstone showing plagioclase detrital grain with
authigenic overgrowth (x150).
Polished surface of goethite, showing spongy texture (x150).
Polished surface of goethite, showing colloform banding (x150).
Polished surface of goethite, showing comb-structure and replacement
banding by magnetite (x150)
Thin section of calcite sandstone. Iron-stained grains of quartz
and limestone set in a matrix of medium grained calcite (x25).
Thin section of sandy calcite limestone. Quartz grains with no
ferruginous staining set in a matrix of calcite. ‘The shape of some
of the quartz grains suggests marginal replacement by the carbonate
of the matrix (x25).
Proc. B.N.S. VoL. XXIX, Pr. I, PLATE Tf:
SSS Ss FERS i : a Ser *
71
A REVIEW OF PAST RESEARCH ON THE
LOWER PALAEOZOIG ROCKS OF THE
TORTWORTH AND EASTERN MENDIP
INLIERS
ByoM. L.. K. Curtis B.Sc., Pu.D., F.G.S.
(Read in title to Council, May 5, 1955. Received April 20, 1955)
HE Lower Palaeozoic rocks of the Bristol district occur as
two widely separated inliers—the Tortworth Inlier in
Gloucestershire, and the Eastern Mendip Inlier, north-east of
Shepton Mallet in Somerset. The Tortworth Inlier has attracted
the interest of geologists since the very earliest days of the science,
and an account of the area read before the Geological Society
in 1819 by Thomas Weaver contained the results of the first serious
work to be carried out on any of the Lower Palaeozoic rocks of
Britain. The Eastern Mendip Inlier, on the other hand, has
received comparatively little attention, and it was not until the
present century that rocks older than the Old Red Sandstone were
known to crop out in that neighbourhood.
In the present review reference is not made to every published
work on the Tortworth and Eastern Mendip Inliers, but only
to those which marked a definite advance in knowledge. A recent
survey of the Tortworth area by the writer has brought further
facts to light, but our understanding of the geology of the two
inliers is still by no means complete.
THE TORTWORTH INLIER
During the late eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries a
number of observers were active in the Tortworth area ; among
them were Dr. Edward Jenner of Berkeley, the well-known natural-
ist and discoverer of vaccination, Mr. Henry Shrapnell also of
Berkeley, Mr. George Cumberland of Bristol, and the Rev. Dr.
George Cooke, Rector of Tortworth.
Jenner’s biographer, Baron (1838, p. 60), tells us:
“The trap rock in Mickle-wood, and the great variety in
its structure, together with the changes produced in the
organic remains found in the Transition lime-stone, where
it comes in contact with the trap, also particularly occupied
the attention of Dr. Jenner. Specimens, illustrating these
changes, were the ornaments of his study and of his garden.”
72 M. L. K. CURTIS
Henry Shrapnell made several observations including the occurrence
of fossiliferous beds associated with the trap at Middlemill, but it
was the Rev. Dr. Cooke who was the most active in the geological
field, and his work was several times alluded to by Weaver (1824),
and again by Murchison (1839) who wrote:
‘“‘ It is delightful to trace in the MS. maps and drawings of
the venerable Rector of ‘Tortworth (the intimate friend of
many of our early observers) the impress of much originality
of thought and sound geological views, long before this district
was described by geologists.”’
Cooke did not confine his interests to local geology, but extended
his studies as far afield as May Hill, Wenlock Edge and Dudley ;
although he published no information himself, his observations
were made use of by both Weaver and Murchison, but to what
extent is not clear.
Among the earliest published writings is a brief note in the
Transactions of the Geological Society of 1817 on the occurrence
of trap rock in Mickle Wood ; this was an extract from the minute
book of the Society, and the information was contained in a
letter from George Cumberland dated 1811. In the Philosophical
Magazine (1816, p. 461) and the Annals of Philosophy (1818, p. 395)
are notices concerning the discovery by a Mr. Bakewell of prehnite
in the trap at Woodford.
On the 4th of June, 1819, a remarkable paper was read before
the Geological Society by Thomas Weaver entitled “‘ Geological
Observations on Part of Gloucestershire and Somersetshire ’’, but
the paper was not printed in the Transactions until 1824, and some
information may have been added during the five years’ interval.
Weaver’s was the first detailed study to be made of any area of
Lower Palaeozoic rocks in the British Isles, and was probably ©
also the first statigraphical work on these ancient rocks, for he
discussed the fossils and compared them with those of May Hill.
The collection of fossils which Weaver obtained in the Tortworth
area is now preserved in the Geological Survey Museum.
The picture presented by Weaver was of an area of Transition
Rocks emerging from beneath the Old Red Sandstone at the
northern margin of the Bristol coal-basin, and showing the same
general concentric arrangement as the overlying Old Red Sandstone
and Carboniferous strata. To the west, in the Whitfield and
Milbury Heath area, Weaver indicated the outcrops as swinging
round in anticlinal form ; to the north, between Middlemill and —
Purton, the Transition Rocks were shown as being inclined to the
west or south-west, and the presence of an anticlinal fold at Purton
Passage was mentioned. Weaver showed the Transition Rocks
to be bounded on their western side from near Stone to Purton
L. PALAEOZOIC OF TORTWORTH AND E. MENDIP INLIERS 73
by Old Red Sandstone, but considered the junction to be uncon-
formable. He explained clearly how the nearly-horizontal Trias
and Lias rest unconformably on the Transition Rocks, and how
they were probably once continuous across the inlier until removed
by denudation. The account was supported by a wealth of
detailed information, particularly on the trap rocks in the Mickle
Wood and Charfield areas and the limestones around Falfield and
Whitfield. Weaver belonged to the Wernerian School, and it is
therefore not surprising to find that he was especially interested
in the trap and its origin. He indicated the presence of five or
six trap barids, claimed the trap to be contemporaneous with the
sediments, and like them to be of aqueous origin.
The same volume of the Transactions in which Weaver’s paper
was published (1824), also contained the classic account by
Buckland and Conybeare of the south-western coal district of
England which set out a clear picture of the geology of the Severn
estuary region. ‘The Transition Rocks of Usk and May Hill were
described, and the authors (p. 248) state that they had intended
to devote a chapter to the Tortworth area, but in view of Weaver’s
detailed paper they decided to suppress their own more rapid
sketch, and referred readers to Weaver’s account. Buckland and
Conybeare did, however, express one opinion : they claimed that
only two trap bands are present, instead of the five or six shown
by Weaver, and considered them to be of an intrusive nature.
The next step forward came with the publication of Murchison’s
Silurian System in 1839. ‘The Tortworth rocks (pp. 447-62) were
assigned to the various divisions of the new system which had been
established further north in the Welsh Borders. Ludlow beds
were shown to be present in the anticline at Purton, and Murchison
thought that all three subdivisions (Upper Ludlow, Aymestry
Limestone and Lower Ludlow) were developed, and that Wenlock
Limestone was present in the core of the fold. The beds at
Horseshoe Farm were regarded as being of Ludlow age, though
not of the usual lithology. ‘The rocks forming most of the south-
western part of the inlier were referred to the Wenlock Series,
and the Wenlock Limestone was shown as extending through
Skay’s Grove, Falfield and Whitfield, while a second limestone
was said to be developed at Barber’s Quarry near Falfield. But it
was the Caradoc Sandstone (which then included the rocks known
to us as Llandovery) that Murchison believed to occupy most
of the inlier, including all the ground from Purton to Falfield, and
a considerable area stretching through Mickle Wood and Tortworth
to Charfield Green. He agreed with Buckland and Conybeare
in regarding the traps as intrusive ; two trap bands were stated
to occur at Charfield, but in the Mickle Wood area several sills
and bosses were shown.
74 M. L. K. CURTIS
A few years later the ground was covered by members of the
Geological Survey, and the results of their work appeared in 1845
on the one inch to the mile geological map (sheet 35). The
vicinity of ‘Tortworth was surveyed (according to Woodward, 1876,
p- 9) by Wiliams, Ramsay, Sanders and Phillips, and an explana-
tion of the Lower Palaeozoic tract was provided by Phillips (1848,
pp. 190-8) in an important memoir which contained much detailed
information, particularly on the rocks at Purton Passage. Phillips
accepted Murchison’s view that Wenlock Limestone is present in
the core of the fold at Purton, but considered it to be directly
succeeded by the Upper Ludlow. The shaly strata occupying the
area between Purton and Swanley were stated to be the lowest
Wenlock Shales or possibly the highest Caradoc Sandstone, and
the same strata were shown as extending down the extreme western
side of the inlier beyond Stone (but in this Phillips differed from the
one inch map which marks the beds between Purton and Swanley
as Ludlow, while those on the western side of the inlier near Stone
are included with the Caradoc). In the main Wenlock outcrop,
around Falfield and Whitfield, the presence of two limestone bands
was indicated. ‘The trap rocks were referred to by Phillips as
being ‘‘ contemporaneously effused traps ’’ which solidified “‘ at
small depths below, or even in part at the surface of the sea bed ”’.
Attention was also drawn to the important unconformity between
the Silurian and Old Red Sandstone, and it was claimed that only
the Upper Old Red Sandstone is present. :
The southern part of the inlier was included in the map of the
Bristol Coalfield on the scale of four inches to the mile by William
Sanders (1864), but apart from this no important contribution was
made during the fifty years following the publication of Phillips’s
memoir of 1848.
Interest in the district was revived in 1898 when a meeting of the
British Association was held at Bristol. An excursion was arranged
to the Tortworth area, and in the guide-book, prepared for the
occasion by Lloyd Morgan, the presence of Wenlock beds at
Charfield was made known for the first time. Members of the
excursion were entertained to lunch at Tortworth Court by Lord
Ducie, and afterwards were shown his extensive collection of fossils.
It was undoubtedly the interest taken in geology by the third
Earl of Ducie that provided an impetus for the detailed researches
that were to be carried out on the Tortworth Silurian rocks during
the next ten years.
In r901 Morgan and Reynolds clearly showed that only two
trap bands are present, and, from a study of the ashy limestones
in Cullimore’s Quarry and Middlemill Quarry, argued that both
are extrusive lavas. Detailed work by Reynolds was subsequently
done on the southern half of the inlier, and not only was the area
mapped on the scale of six inches to the mile, but numerous trial
L. PALAEOZOIC OF TORTWORTH AND E. MENDIP INLIERS 75
holes were dug (Reed and Reynolds, 1908a and 1908b). The
ashy limestones in both Cullimore’s Quarry and Middlemill
Quarry were found to be associated with the Upper Trap, thus
re-opening the possibility of an intrusive origin for the Lower Trap.
It was also shown that the 500 feet of beds between the two trap
bands form the main fossiliferous group of the Upper Llandovery,
that a distinctive and richly fossiliferous horizon occurs just above
the Upper Trap in Cullimore’s Quarry, Daniel’s Wood and
Middlemill Quarry, and that the same distinctive horizon can be
recognized in Eastwood Park. ‘The large collection of fossils made
by Reynolds is now largely housed in the Geology Department
of the University of Bristol; these, together with specimens in
the Sedgwick Museum, the Geological Survey Museum, the
Bristol Museum and the Ducie Collection were identified by
Cowper Reed who provided the faunal lists. In a petrographical
account of the igneous rocks, Reynolds (1924) put forward evidence
suggesting the Lower ‘Trap to be intrusive.
Perhaps the most significant contribution to be made to the
geology of the Tortworth Inlier, since the earliest days, was the
unexpected discovery in 1932 by Dr. Stanley Smith of ‘Tremadoc
Shales in an old shaft at Breadstone. ‘These shales were found
to occupy several square miles of country hitherto assigned to the
Silurian, and to extend from Purton, where they are faulted
against the Ludlow, as far south as Coldelm. ‘The fossils were
described by Dr. C. J. Stubblefield who declared them to be of
Lower Tremadoc age. In 1944 some small inliers of Wenlock
rocks near Wickwar were recorded and described for the first time
by Prof. W. F. Whittard and Dr. Stanley Smith.
Recently the southern part of the Tortworth Inlier has been
mapped by the officers of the Geological Survey (Kellaway and
| Welch, 1948, pp. 11-14). In a section across the inlier (Fig. 4,
p. 13) the Silurian rocks are shown as being faulted on their western
side against the Lower Old Red Sandstone, and three limestone
bands are indicated in the Wenlock. Also, beds of presumed
_ Llandovery age are stated to form some small inliers in the Little
Avon River between Charfield and Wickwar.
THE EASTERN MENDIP INLIER
The Lower Palaeozoic rocks of the Eastern Mendip Inlier have
been the subject of research for a much shorter period than those
of the Tortworth Inlier ; few geologists have studied the area in
detail, and our knowledge of its structure and stratigraphy is due
almost entirely to the work of the late Prof. S. H. Reynolds.
The existence of igneous rocks in Eastern Mendip was first made
known by Charles Moore (1867, pp. 451-3). A report that
76 M. L. K. CURTIS
peculiar minerals had been found near Stoke Lane led Moore to
dig at various places in the neighbourhood, and in the summer of
1866 he succeeded in uncovering a basaltic rock which he believed
to form part of a great dyke intruded in post-Carboniferous times.
John Morris (1868, p. 236), in the report of an excursion made
by students of University College, London, states that the rock
occurs as “‘a dyke of considerable thickness’’, and that “‘it is
conglomeratic in places, and pronounced by Mr. D. Forbes to be
a dolerite ’’.
In 1873 the revised edition of the Geological Survey one inch
to the mile map (sheet 19) was published ; the igneous rocks near
Stoke Lane were shown as a number of isolated masses, as mapped
by Bristow and Woodward, but we are told that Ussher regarded
them as forming a continuous mass extending from Beacon Hill
to Downhead (Woodward, 1876, p. 14). Astudy of the microscopic
characters of the rock was made by Rutley (1876), and later by
Teal who described it as an andesite (Geikie and Strahan, 1899,
pp. 110-11).
Towards the end of the last century and at the beginning of the
present century a number of quarries were opened in the igneous
rocks, and this encouraged Reynolds to make a careful survey of the
whole area. He soon made the surprising discovery that the
andesite is associated in Sunnyhill Quarry with tuffs containing
Silurian fossils. ‘Thus Reynolds not only demonstrated that the
igneous rocks are extrusive, but also proved them to be of Silurian
age, and so added a further system to the geological map of Somerset.
In a detailed account of the inlier Reynolds (1907) described the
Silurian rocks as forming the core of an anticline, and as being
succeeded, probably unconformably, by the Old Red Sandstone.
The andesite was shown to occur as two large masses, one in the |
neighbourhood of Downhead, and the other extending westwards
from Moon’s Hill Quarry. Reynolds considered the andesite to
be probably not less than 400 ft. thick and to dip fairly steeply
to the north-north-west. The andesite is underlain by tuffs con-
taining fossils which Cowper Reed believed to belong to the Upper
Llandovery ; indications of the fossiliferous tuffs were found in
several places, but the best section was in Sunnyhill Quarry where
the tuffs could be seen dipping northwards beneath the andesite
and to be partly interbedded with it. A coarse ashy conglomerate
was described as occurring at Beacon Hill and to the east of Moon’s
Hill Quarry, but its relationship to the other rocks of the inlier
was not seen. Reynolds suggested that this rock may be a coarse
water-deposited tuff or may represent material filling volcanic vents.
Further information was obtained from a number of trial holes
dug to the south-east of Moon’s Hill Quarry and from cuttings made
when a line of rails was constructed from Downhead Quarry to
L. PALAEOZOIC OF TORTWORTH AND E. MENDIP INLIERS del
_Long Cross Bottom (Reynolds and others, 1909 ; Reynolds, 1912).
Mudstones and shales seen in these exposures were found to be
normal sediments without the admixture of volcanic material. A
considerable fauna obtained from them was at first thought by
Cowper Reed to be a Llandovery fauna, but later when more
specimens became available a Wenlock age was suggested. South-
ward dips were observed in these Wenlock mudstones and they
were said by Reynolds to overlie the andesite and to be the youngest
rocks exposed in the inlier.
REFERENCES
Baron, J. (1838). The life of Edward Jenner, M.D., LL.D., F.R.S., with illus-
trations of his doctrines, and selections from his correspondence. 1. London.
‘Buckland, W. and W. D. Conybeare. 1824. Observations on the south-western
coal district of England. Trans. Geol. Soc., (2), 1, 210-316.
Cumberland, G. (1817). [On the occurrence of trap rock in Micklewood.]
Trans. Geol. Soc., (1), 4, 444.
Geikie, A. and A. Strahan (1899). Volcanic group in the Carboniferous Lime-
stone of North Somerset. Summ. Prog. Geol. Surv. (for 1898), 104-111.
Halifax, R. (1818). Prehnite. Ann. Phil., 12, 395.
Kellaway, G. A. and F. B. A. Welch (1948). British Regional Geology : Bristol
and Gloucester district. 2nd ed. Geol. Surv.
Moore, C. (1867). On abnormal conditions of secondary deposits when con-
nected with the Somersetshire and South Wales coal-basin ; and on the age
of the Sutton and Southerndown Series. Quart. Journ. Geol. Soc., 23, 449-568.
Morgan, C. LI. (1898). Excursion to Tortworth. Brit. Assoc. excursion guide, on. 17.
Bristol.
and S. H. Reynolds (1901). The igneous rocks and _ associated
sedimentary beds of the Tortworth Inlier. Quart. Journ. Geol. Soc., 57,
267-284.
Morris, J. (1868). Geological excursion to Bath and its neighbourhood. Geol.
Mag, (1) 5, 233-236.
Murchison, R. I. (1839). The Silurian System, founded on geological researches
in the counties of Salop, Hereford, Radnor, Montgomery, Caermarthen,
Brecon, Pembroke, Monmouth, Gloucester, Worcester and Stafford ; with
descriptions of the coal-fields and overlying formations. London.
Phillips, J. (1848). The Malvern Hills, compared with the Palaeozoic districts of
Abberley, Woolhope, May Hill, Tortworth, and Usk. Mem. Geol. Surv.,
2 (1).
Reed, F. R. C. and S. H. Reynolds (19084). Silurian fossils from certain localities
in the Tortworth Inlier. Proc. Bristol Nat. Soc., (4), 2, 32-40.
(1908B). On the fossiliferous Silurian rocks of the southern half
of the Tortworth Inlier. Quart. Journ. Geol. Soc., 64, 512-545.
Reynolds, S. H. (1907). A Silurian inlier in the Eastern Mendips. Quart.
Journ. Geol. Soc., 63, 217-240.
—— (1912). Further work on the Silurian rocks of the Eastern Mendips.
Proc. Bristol Nat. Soc., (4), 3, 76-82.
—— (1924). The igneous rocks of the Tortworth Inlier. Quart. Journ. Geol.
Soc., 80, 106-112.
and others (1909). Investigation of the pre-Devonian rocks of the Mendips
and the Bristol area. Rep. Brit. Assoc. (for 1908), 286-291.
—_—-
78 M. L. K. CURTIS
Rutley, F. (1876). On the microscopic characters of some eruptive rocks from
Somersetshire and Gloucestershire. (Appendix to ‘“ Geology of East
Somerset and the Bristol coal-fields’? by H. B. Woodward, 208-212.)
Mem. Geol. Surv.
Sanders, W. (1864). Map of the Bristol coalfields and country adjacent in
nineteen sheets. Scale, 4 inches to 1 mile. Bristol.
Smith, S. and C. J. Stubblefield (1933). On the occurrence of ‘Tremadoc Shales
in the Tortworth Inlier (Gloucestershire), with notes on the fossils. Quart.
Journ. Geol. Soc., 89, 357-378.
Weaver, T. (1824). Geological observations on part of Gloucestershire and
Somersetshire. Trans. Geol. Soc., (2), 1, 317-368.
Whittard, W. F. and S. Smith (1944). Unrecorded inliers of Silurian rocks,
near Wickwar, Gloucestershire, with notes on the occurrence of a stromatolite.
Geol. Mag., 81, 65-76.
Woodward, H. B. (1876). Geology of East Somerset and the Bristol coal-fields.
(With notes by H. W. Bristow, W. A. E. Ussher and J. H. Blake.) Mem.
Geol. Surv.
Anonymous (1816). Prehnite discovered in Gloucestershire. Phil. Mag., 48, 461.
we
if
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CONTENTS
PAGE
Council me 80
Members at April, 1, 6 81
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Account of the General Meetings ie aM we ee ae ae 99
Obituary : Dr. S. Smith Me is se fig LOO
Bristol Botany in 1955, by Cecil I. ca N. y. San Re oe ie eLO
Bristol Bird Report, 1955, : : Sh 109
Lepidoptera Notes, Bristol District, 1955, ©. S. H. BIE: ee. Lise)
W. D. Conybeare, his Geological No eae alas and Bristol Aeron,
by F. J. North me bt é ms : ; in a hag
Type and Figured Specimens from ihe Tortworth inlien Gloucestershire,
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Mining and Quarrying.1 in the Bristol ee 1955, i i: s. Loupekine ee 155
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@lement, Mis. E.S. ....-. 2 Effingham Road, St. Andrews, Bristol, 6
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Clements, FS: .:...5..5- Longmead, Queen’s Road, Bishopsworth,
Bristol, 3
Clements, Miss E. M. .... 149 Queen’ s Road, Bishopsworth, Bristol, 3
@lotherniG. BE, 2)... 6... ‘* Fylde ’’, Weston Rd. , Long Ashton, Bristol
Clough, MissA.M. ...... qi Falledon Way, Westbury-on-Trym, Bristol
Collins, MissM.A. ...... 22 Park Road, Shirehampton, Bristol
Gelthurst, Mrs: | ..). 0.06... Stonecrop, Wembdon Hill, Bridgwater, Som.
@olthurst, W.D.........6% Do.
(CEC SI ys 3 oi aa ies 17 Constitution Hill, Clifton, Bristol, 8
(OLS) lle Wi OP A a g Blenheim Road, Redland, Bristol, 6
MP OOOKIWIISS Seis cc a ss oe a Do.
Cook, Miss V.V. 2.2.6.4 16 St. Helena Rd., Westbury Park, Bristol, 6
Cooper, Miss B. K. D. .... 108 Falcondale Road, Westbury-on-Trym,
Bristol, 9
Corbett, Miss C. L., M.B. Hillcrest, Falcondale Road, Westbury-on-
(OM Sa ee a ee Trym, Bristol, 9
Gormack. 1). M........... 1 Rodway Hill, Mangotsfield, Bristol
Warmack KAS i. dee ke de Do.
/ MOCSIGIIG I) AES ae ieee nena 3 Parry’s Close, Stoke Bishop, Bristol, 9
_ Mots pilD A era 42 Lower Ashley Road, Bristol
Cowie, JWV.,,B-Sc... «2... 83 Woodland Road, Bristol, 8
Cowley, J..M.A., F.R.E.S. | Holywell House, Edington, Bridgwater, Som.
Cowlishaw, Miss I.O.M... 12 Clyde Road, Redland, Bristol, 6
5 A OO5 A OES Ra ee 76 Lime Road, Southville, Bristol, 3
Crampton, Miss D. M. .... Locke’s Cottage, Belluton, Pensford, Bristol
Cranfield, R. David ...... 5 Coniston Avenue, Westbury-on-Trym,
Bristol, 9
Cranfield, R, Dean. ...... Do.
Guillem, DaAwGe. .. 2... ss g Dorchester Road, Horfield, Bristol, 7
Cullen, Mrs. D. A.C....... Do.
Culverwell, R. Vi... 65. 4 Southfield Rd., Westbury-on-Trym. Bristol
Cummams) CA. oo. ee ss “* Triscombe ”’, 208 Stoke Lane, Westbury
on-Trym, Bristol
Cummings, Mrs.C.H..... Do.
Curtis, 'M. L. K., B.Sc.,
JEL DOM ee ae The Stock House, Berkeley, Glos.
me Dantell, G. Mo. ie. eee 67 Ilchester Crescent, Bedminster Down,
Bristol, 3
Davie, J: iM Ph.D.,) B.Sc.;
[SETS CE ee eae a Clifton College, Bristol, 8
Wavies Misys... 2s 3s +s 54 Wellington Walk, Westbury-onTrym,
Bristol, 9
IDEN TISS? | [Se ee c/o Mr. G. Grant, Edgewood Court, Rock-
away, New Jersey, U.S.A.
Davis, H. H.,M.B.0O.U. .. Little Stoke Farm, Patchway, Bristol
PB:
Davis, Mrs, H. H. id ia ~ Do,
Dawe, MissL.M. ........ School House, Tickenham, Clevedon, Som.
Day, 12.3), aaa 28 Rugby Road, Brislington, Bristol, 4
aE ns Solis cleo ww aales Windways, Greenhill Road, Sandford, nr.
Bristol
meloneld A i. cc cetews Elstone, Hermitage Road, Lansdown, Bath,
Som.
Dennison, V. D., B.Sc.
(20100) eee een 12 Newlyn Avenue, Bristol, 9
Devonshire, A.F., Ph.D. .. Dept. of Physics, Bristol University.
84 MEMBERS
A(F). “Devy. Miss 'P.). .c is ae ene 24 Morley Road, Southville, Bristol, 3
* Donovan, D. T., B.Sc.,
PRD OEG Si le eas 12 Royal Crescent, Bath
A(#). Drummond, Miss A. K..... 65 Harcourt Road, Redland, Bristol, 6
DuddensiGw.. ema. 26 Rousham Road, Bristol, 5
Dudden, Mrs. G. H. Do.
Duddridge, Miss E., B.Sc... 59 Kellaway Avenue, Bristol, 6
C. PATI ay Rr ee sche eee Innocks, North Nibley, Dursley, Glos.
Dunnicht¥,H., MeALS.. : 10 Effingham Road, Bristol, 6
ACP) Over wNWliss is AX. 62") ih rere 24 Merrywood Road, Southville, Bristol, 3
Hatough, PAs 105. cee ee 116 Newbridge Road, St. Anne’s Park,
Bristol, 4
Fatough, Mis: J.cA. 2 22.8 Do.
AC deel MEI. s,s te mene _ 31 Harrowdene Road, Knowle, Bristol, 4
H. Bdmonds, Hi@rit 2... The Grange, Goring-on-Thames, Berks.
Englands WWaAuc niece iin 54 Chandos Road, Keynsham, Bristol
England, Mrs. W.A....... Do.
ACG). Evans CAR. 1.26 we sie sion 30 Blenheim Road, Bristol, 6
Vans sols bey eek eon 17 Mortimer Road, Filton, Bristol, 7
Evans, he Woy sexscatele eters a) ate 46 Horfield Road, St. Michael’s, Bristol, 2
EVENS ES oer re uae 96 Hampton Road, Bristol, 6
Evens, F.W.,A.C.A. .... 65 Linden Road, Bristol, 6
Falk, Mrs.M.M. ........ 7 Sion Hill, Clifton, Bristol, 8
Parmer, Miss Poot sa' ase Capri, Gardens Road, Clevedon, Som.
Barmer;, Miss) Paka ee 44 College Road, Clifton, Bristol, 8
Ravellt Miss A Cees ie The Manor House, Shipham, Winscombe,
Fear, A. C. K., B.Sc.,
BYERS Ss ae esate palopane tet Lodway Cottage, Pill, Som.
Fleetham, Miss M.W. .... 15 Randall Road, Clifton, Bristol, 8
Fleure, Miss E.,.M.A. .... Wyvyan House, Clifton Park, Clifton,
Bristol, 8
Blook JE Wan dee ee 70 Hudd’s Vale Road, St. George, Bristol, 5
Flook;)Mirss Fl. Ws esa ice Do.
Flook,) Missi)... 5.2. 10 Radley Road, Fishponds, Bristol, 5
Ford, [AEE BIS. as oh aks University of Bristol
Forrest, Gan Vien. cane. 43 Canynge Road, Clifton, Bristol, 8
Foster, 10Ro su. cles ees 26 Hampton Park, Redland, Bristol, 7
Foster, Mrs) DOR: =. 2... Do.
Foster, cig en ciicneccen 56 Egerton Road, Bishopston, Bristol, 7
Foster, Misi Rech. > ya Do.
Fowler JH. (CG) Sak soe. 10 Hughenden Road, Clifton, Bristol, 8
Fox, Massibie le oo aune ees Combewell, Winford, Bristol
Fraymouth, Miss J., M.Sc. 24 St. Michael’s Park, Bristol, 2
Frost Di Wi Beye fsiecayslees 32 Oakwood Road, Henleaze, Bristol
Bry. aoe i eee a ose Sidcot School, Winscombe, Som.
Boys RN eee tae, LU 59 Air Balloon Road, St. George, Bristol, 5
Furber, Miss A. A......... 106 Henleaze Road, Henleaze, Bristol, 6
” Fyfe, Mrs. R. M. , B.Sc. .... 7 Beaconsfield Road, Clifton, Bristol, 8
Garlick, Gwe: iow ane 147 Melrose Avenue, Yate, Nr. Bristol
yi Garrett, Mi ecn ae aes enters 8 Groveleaze, Sea Mills, Bristol
Grodin oP Se Wn. see -can ier 21 Hampton Road, Redland, Bristol, 6
wGodimanit@ i Wee th ee 5 Arden Close, Coombe Dingle, Bristol, 9
Goldring, D-Gi ie erat 21 Apsley Road, Clifton, Bristol, 8
Goldring wR. cee te ee aa D
oO.
Gorham, MajorA......... Heathercroft, St. Luke’s, Cheltenham, Glos.
2s
ps
A(7).
MEMBERS 85
Gorvett, H., B.Sc., Ph.D. .. Zoology Dept., Imperial College, S.W.7
Graham, MissC. ........ 9 Leigh Road, Clifton, Bristol, 8
Grandfield, V.H. <..-... 216 Stapleton Road, Bristol, 5
Gravestock, MissI.F. .... 7 Leigh Road, Clifton, Bristol, 8
Greening, L. E., M.Inst.C.E. 5 Abbey Road, Westbury-on-Trym, Bristol
Gatti Wiiss We... se ee 95 Raleigh Road, Southville, Bristol, 3
Groves Miss Cy 0... 5 ee 21 Bayswater Avenue, Redland, Bristol, 6
Grundy, Miss M.E. ...... 46 Burley Crescent, Downend, Bristol
Habgood, Miss M.E....... 9 Burlington Road, Bristol, 6
acue, Missi@.L. 2... 2. 10 Royal York Crescent, Clifton, Bristol, 8
iamblett. DER... ..,...- 3. 60 Silver Street, Dursley, Glos.
Hamilton, R.G., M.A. .... Tanglewood, West Hill, Wraxall, Som.
Hamilton, Mrs.R.G. .... Do.
Hamlin, Rev. A.G., B.A. .. 85 Cromwell Road, Bristol, 6
Do
. Hamlin, MissA.E. ......
Hamlyn, Miss M. E., B.Sc. The Chase, Rectory Lane, Compton Martin,
Som.
Hammacott, H.R......... Knoll Rise, Chestnut Road, Long Ashton,
Bristol
Harding, Miss J. M.D. .... 10 Royal York Crescent, Clifton, Bristol, 8
Harding, Miss W.G....... 11 Ivywell Road, Sneyd Park, Bristol, 9
Hants, Miss EA... ... ... 487 Fishponds Road, Bristol
arise Woes eee dash tr 3 2 Cecil Avenue, St. George, Bristol, 5
MBI eNTGS, WAN HIRES ie scsi a gis oreo e s Do.
Harris, Prot. J. E.,.F.R.S.,
M. A., 1 Plo! Bs athe aan rae 6 Clifton Hill, Clifton, Bristol, 8
Harris, Miss Vi TAOS eae gre 112 Coombe Lane, Westbury-on-Trym,
Bristol, 9
Mil AERIS. RN. Jee! «cece 3s 6 sss Charnwood, The Avenue, Clevedon, Som.
Hartill, G. G., M.R.C.S.,
RAG Ri dieiia ese 88 os Stone House, High Street, Chipping Sodbury
Haskins. Aso... ee es 30 Townsend, Chew Stoke, Near Bristol
Hawker, Miss L. E., D.Sc.,
elo Di) Bis) Lt CEE aera oe 32 Barley Croft, Westbury-on-Trym, Bristol
Henderson, R.W.J. ...... 8 Oldfield Place, Hotwells, Bristol, 8
Heslop; i.) R. P:, M.A,
| is OS OS A eae Belfield, Poplar Rd., Burnham-on-Sea, Som.
Hewlett, Miss C. M. E., M.Sc. 3 Lansdown Place West, Bath, Som.
Hickman, Mrs. E.L....... 45 Grove Road, Coombe Dingle, Bristol, 9
dauckmaam, Rei ase cs 57 Westbury Road, Westbury-on-Trym,
Bristol, 9
iggens, MissB........... 3 Lansdown Place, West, Bath, Som.
ley; Miss M.D. °........ 9g Vyvyan Terrace, Clifton, Bristol, 8
Pall Mis) 1D. R. soe 3 Charlton Lane, Brentry, Bristol
inten. TH) ES Ph.D.... 5). . Zoology Dept., University, Bristol
Hiebbs. @2 Ri BuA.. |. ca 6 Webbs Heath Farm, Warmley, Bristol
lobbs, Mrs. CR. . 2... 6 Do.
to eke vats Grd 68 is oh ve Regina, Station Road, Weston-super-Mare,
Som.
loekeyn GiGi... iosc2c. oes : Do.
Elelmes-W. A. . 0.2... 4 Hyland Grove, Westbury-on-Trym,
Bristol, 9
Htolwrll i. J. Wow... se es 39 Royal York Crescent, Clifton, Bristol, 8
Holwill, Mrs. F.J.W. .... Do.
PEO IRS Cle sae as ee ves 26 St. Andrew’s Road, Montpelier, Bristol, 6
Horn, Miss E. J., M.A. .... 12 Salisbury Road Redland, Bristol, 6
HBettonlieR WV ke ws oe 3 Walsingham Road, St. Andrew’s, Bristol, 6
Hoult, Mis. R.W......... Do
Howard, R. W., M.R.C,V.S. 19 Richmond Hill, Clifton, Bristol, 8
Howard, Mrs.R.M....... Do.
86
PIZTS\ =
A(7).
bal OF
*
*
*
Hulbert, Mrs Re (se, ee
Humphries, Mrs.C. M.....
Hutchinson, MissM.N. .
Pluitty,Miass Mi i ee
Nackson,! Wein... saat erste
Jago, MissI. M., B.Sc. ....
Names) Mis. Min dot
James, Mass MivAT ces.
Jelly, Mass )Rio ei aie ceayete
Jenkin, Miss P. M., M.A. ..
Jenkins, Miss DR: 2). 6.2.
Jenkins, F. G., M.B., Ch.B.
Johns, MissC.M. ........
Jobnson, De... etc
Johnston, Miss C. Mc.K.,
M.A.
coecee ere eee ee ee oe @
Kearns, H. G. H., Ph.D.,
BSc ERE... -eics
Kellaway, G. ne opises
PAGS eige Mie ences
Kendall, O.D., M.A. ....
Kenney, D. J. Roa
A.M.1.Mech.E. 2... 2.4
Kenney; Mrs) Do]. Ko).
Kinga Be iit Galo macs teies
Kitching, J. A., O.B.E.
M.A., Ph.D., Seal Asics:
Lance, J AR eae eee:
Lance, Mis. qu o'.. sd).
Lansdowne, IW) SET. he es,
Leach, A. C. ,M.A., T.D. ..
Leach, MissC. V.M.......
Leese tC SE iB SC. cites or
Lewis, Miss E. K., B.A. ....
hewis, Missi | sc aeeceee cite
Lewisohn]: Ags 2h2 aan.
Lewisohn, Mrs. J.A.......
Lillico, Miss J. W. ........
inn, Loi. ye ene
Linton, Miss. [en 43 see
Lippiatt, MissE.M. ....
Lodge; Mirs: KM. otc) 2 hia
Pong, Mass Be Bi. iet tree
MEMBERS
101 Belmont Road, St. Andrews, Bristol, 6
Do.
*“* Lamorna ’’, Easter Compton, nr. Bristol
Do.
The Paddocks, Chew Stoke, nr. Bristol
20 Kinsale Road, Knowle, Bristol, 4
“ Hillcrest’, Falcondale Road, Westbury-:
on-Trym, Bristol, 9
“* Greenhills ’?, Ham Lane, Dundry, Bristol
51 Westbury Road, Bristol
The Mill House, Woollard, Pensford, nr.
Bristol
12 Glen Drive, Stoke Bishop, Bristol, 9
Barrow Court, Barrow Gurney, nr. Bristol
Dept. of Zoology, Bristol University
10 Welsford Road, Stapleton, Bristol
51 Redcliff Hill, Bristol,1 1
2 Gloucester Row, Bristol, 8.
153 Cheltenham Road, Bristol, 6
38 Manor Park, Redland, Bristol, 6
Southmead General Hospital, Westbury-on-
Trym, Bristol
634 Filton Avenue, Bristol, 7
The Research Station, Long Ashton, Bristol
Geological Survey and Museum, South
Kensington, S.W.7
Wills Hall, Stoke Bishop, Bristol, 9
53 St. Michael’s Hill, Bristol, 2
Do.
Mayfield, Uplands Road, Saltford, Som.
8 Old Sneed Park, Bristol, 9
8 Atlantic Road South, Weston-super-Mare,
Som.
Do.
Windmill Hill F arm, Hutton, Weston-super-
Mare, Som.
Do.
I Napier Road, Redland, Bristol, 6
Highclere, Cote Park, Westbury-on-Trym,
Bristol, 9
Do.
32 Haverstock Road, Bristol, 4
g Cornwallis Crescent, Clifton, Bristol, 8
Do.
Hunters Hall, Bitton, Nr. Bristol
Do.
37b Downleaze, Bristol, 9
Zoology Dept., University of Exeter
21 Belgrave Road, Clifton, Bristol, 8
Amber Leigh, Rudgeway, nr. Bristol
5 Worcester Terrace, Clifton, Bristol, 8
9g Osborne Road, Clifton, Bristol, 8
od
MEMBERS 87
* Loupekine, I. S., B.Sc., Royal Technical College of East Africa,
ROE AG Ses oe ee Private Bag, Nairobi, Kenya
C. Heel ee ee ww ts 51 Mildred Avenue, Harlington, Hayes,
Middx.
Lowe, E. E., B.Sc., Ph.D... 17 Southfield Road, Westbury-on-Trym,
Bristol
meg ee lbewmdes, Geo... 1... ee eee 214 Redland Road, Bristol, 6
Raf on LOWOCES, Jo... 2... ce eee es Do.
PA emleOwmees, Reo... cece ee Do.
Loxton, Miss D. M......... 15b Grove Road, Redland, Bristol, 6
Luxford, Mrs. K.M....... 15 Sunnyside, Stoke Bishop, Bristol, 9
Maggs, Miss F.R. ........ 57 Barton Road, St. Philip’s, Bristol, 2
C. Mia mInORE VG foc. kk High Street, Wootton-under-Edge, Glos.
A(F). Margetts, D. 44. Luckwell Road, Bristol, 3
Marsden, A., M.B.E., Ph.D.,
M.Sc., F.R.IC. ........ 161 Bishop Road, Bishopston, Bristol, 7
Marsden, Mrs. A, ........ O.
*H. Matthews, L. Harrison, Zoological Society of London, Regent’s
M.A., Sc.D., F.L.S., F.R.S. Park, N.W.8.
Maunder, MissM.E. .... 6 Oak Road, Horfield, Bristol, 7
McLeod, MissE. ........ 182 Badminton Road, Downend, Bristol
Mead, Miss'G. Eo... 16 Quadrant West, Hillfields Park, Bristol
Meese: Wise. i eke es ss 164 Bloomfield Road, Bristol, 4
A, Merrie, sD). s. 0.51.3 Inglenook Cottage, Alveston Hill, Thorn-
bury, Glos.
Messiter, MissF.E, ...... 1 Tyndall’s Park Road, Clifton, Bristol, 8
C. Milburne; Mis. D......... Syston one Cottage, Mangotsfield, nr.
Bristo
C. ind HIS Se Lyndale, Merthyr-Mawr Road, Bridgend,
Glam.
Millard, Mrs. E.R.. ...... 10 Cambridge Park, Bristol, 6
Jka GB ey a St. Vincents, West Town, nr. Bristol
IMiItomsfice as ois eo 10 Randall Road, Clifton Wood, Bristol, 8
Milton, Mrs.J. .......5.- Do.
C. Milward, Mrs. M.W. .... Bonneval, Station Road, Nailsea, Som.
NMfocfosd. He Fi. eo. ss 3a Southfield Road, Westbury-on-Trym,
Bristol, 9
mere VOR Gs he ede ed os 483 Fishponds Road, Bristol, 5
Moore} Miss J.C. ........ 56 Hampton Road, Bristol, 6
IMoroam pili. ois oa ase Dodmore Crossing, Westerleigh, nr. Bristol
A. Morgan, Miss P........... 48 Wellington Hill, Horfield, Bristol, 7
HA 7). Moss, MissH.M. ........ 13 Richmond Avenue, Montpelier, Bristol, 6
PAN ee TOSS SS. Wasi. esc eee ss Do.
Morris, Mrs. P.M. ...... 103 Passage Road, Westbury-on-Trym,
Bristol, 9
Mountstevens, Miss E. ..102 Falcondale Road, Westbury-on-Trym,
Bristol, 9
Pay) woviudees Ra. 0. isos ee cee g Fairhaven Road, Redland, Bristol, 6
Mate NASI Rea ooh a ee eas 4 Kent Road, Bishopston, Bristol, 7
C. Nature Conservancy (The) 91 Victoria Street, London, S.W.1
Ci Naylor, Muss A. L.’........ Grey Hollow, West Harptree, Bristol
A. Ness a ae 70 Trymside, Sea Mills, Bristol, 9
INethercott, PJ. M. .....-. 3 The Glen, Durdham Down, Bristol, 6
Nettle; Miss E.C.. ........ 3 Beaufort Road, Kingswood, Bristol
Neville, Miss M. ........ 7 Belmont Road, St. Andrew’s, Bristol, 6
Niblett, E-G.M. .....%.; 33 Beaufort Road, Clifton, Bristol, 8
may) wNecmols, M. ..... 2... ee 641 Filton Avenue, Bristol, 7
Nightingale, K. R......... 20 Hadrian Close, Sea Mills, Bristol, 9
88 MEMBERS
O'Neill PF :, B.S) 3)... 24 Channel View Crescent, Portishead, Som.
Orme VAC I OAG Nei ie, eee Oakfield Lodge, Julian Road, Stoke Bishop,
Bristol, 9
Orme, Mis Ac JA c oon Do.
Owen; BABE ne Bare 13 Wells Road, Bristol, 4
Owens, Mrs.N.M. ...... 10 Radley Road, Fishponds, Bristol, 5
C. Ralimeri@ Wz. 7. fae syecees Highfield, Sandford Hill, Bridgwater, Som.
OF Palmer, Mirsii@. Di) oi)... Do.
C. Palnier, Mass 'E. Mi 5.222. Do.
C. Palmer-Smith, Mrs.M..... 202 Prekersleigh Road, Malvern, Worcs.
Pares, W. T., Lt.-Col. .... Crofters, Blagdon, Som.
Partite sat 4c nn coe n Stoweylands, Bishop Sutton, nr. Bristol
Parker, Mirs)iS.cb ORL “* Jalna ”’, 6 Stonehill, Hanham, Bristol
Parslow, Actbwicd ie cnk eee 14, Eastfield Gardens, Weston- -super-Mare,
om
A( 7). Paxsoms, Miss Eli Jo.,. 5.06 40 131 Staple Hill Road, Fishponds, Bristol
VAI, PAUSOUS. Ran) do tse cuales 46 Vicarage Road, Southville, Bristol, 3
Patch, Miss BiMei...05 20% 71_ Cranford Lane, Westbury-on-Trym,
Bristol, 9
Paulson, C. W. G., c/o The Monotype Corporation Ltd.,
MEBIOSU SE AZScn Stseene Salfords, Redhill, Surrey
Payne, Mirs; BM tnd. J. Merrywood, West Harptree, nr. Bristol
Paynes Ei", ge erase Compton House, Chew Stoke, nr. Bristol
"Beach, A. ve toe) eet 2 5 Hanbury Road, Clifton, Bristol, 8
*C. Pearman, J.V.,F.R.E.S. ,... Beechcroft, Upper Wchnicldi Way.m-astom
Clinton, nr. Aylesbury, Bucks
A. PedlersHiGH ees 4 Aes 21 Clift Road, Ashton Gate, Bristol
A fee eerless, IMMNSSHE)cye rs loins i. 3 Thackeray Avenue, Clevedon, Som.
Pemberton, Miss J. A.W... 14 Cambridge Park, Redlands, Bristol, 6
Perkins, Mrs. M.M....... 25 Sandys Leaze, Canford, Westbury-on-
Trym, Bristol
Perret; Dj bli a ia feast West End Pharmacy, Bridgwater, Som.
Perry, F.C., M.A., F.L.A... 38 Kellaway Avenue, Bristol, 6
Pernryamnar gee a etic etc! 21 St. Alban’s Rd., Westbury Park, Bristol, 6
Phillips, F. Coles, M.A.,
Pha SVG. Sei ee Dept. of Geology, Bristol University
Phillips, i Re BSG. cn ae: g Grove Avenue, Coombe Dingle, Bristol, 9
A( 7). Phillips\Missta cen eee 15 Belvedere Road, Bristol, 6
Phillips, Mrs. M.D. H..... 6 Beaconsfield Road, Clifton, Bristol, 8
Pick, Miss ‘©. Mir. .i.ccete se Ss 4 Royal York Villas, Clifton, Bristol, g
A, Pitnaam, FRAG oe teins a dees 20 Tuffley Road, Westbury-on-Trym,
Bristol, 9
Plaice, Miss C. H. T., B.Sc., 94 Sandringham Road, Brislington,
PAD ee fies se chee. ae Bristol, 4
Plaices Bie veel oetorse Ae Do
Plowright, Rev. E. W., B.A. Hanham Vicarage, Bristol
D
Plowright) Mrs. 2 327. 2: 2h. oO.
CG: Pooled sas eae site sas 11 Malvern Road, Weston-super-Mare, Som.
Poplett; Miss. Hit 3.32. 3. 2 Cotham Road, Bristol, 6
Popplestone, Gr ie. str. 29 Burlington Road, Redland, Bristol, 6
Popplestone, Mrs. C....... Do.
Als Popplestone, Miss L. J. T... Do.
G: Potter, Miss EWA, | 2.0 22. Westonbirt School, Tetbury, Glos.
* Poulding “Rw. pdm cee 10 West Park Road, Downend, Bristol
Pratt; Missi Eso iut ease 1 Hughenden Road, Clifton, Bristol 8
Pratt, WoW ie ak cue Re 1 Hanham Road, Kingswood, Bristol
Prowse, D. C., M.B.,Ch.B. Wigmore House, Thornbury, nr. Bristol
Prowse, Mrs. D. C., M.B.,
ChB. Oe aeeeein Do.
A, Prowse) Miss oS. .ueie.nee g Alexandra Road, Clifton, Bristol, 8
SIS 2is)
MEMBERS 89
10S, | |e 141 Cromwell Road, St. Andrews, Bristol, 6
So See ee ee Sycamore Cottage, East Harptree, Som.
Dasiey, Mirswik. Mw... .. O.
Pyke, H. D., M.B., Ch.B. 88 Redland Road, Bristol, 6
Pyke, Mrs. MeDi 22... Do.
Quick, Mrs. O. E., B.Sc. .. 129 Stoke Lane, Westbury-on-Trym, Bristol, 9
Rake, Miss B. A., B.Sc. .... 56 Ridgeway, Long Ashton, Bristol
Rawelitte) Mrs. B. .. 02... 22 Abbotts Road, Hanham, Bristol
HRAWCMNTOMIDS a ss eo oe co Do.
Reads MissPoD. ........ 37 Naishcombe Hill, Wick, Bristol
INGCVES PONV) See de ee ee 284 Wells Road, Bristol, 4
Reynolds): F., BA. ...... Queens College, Taunton, Som.
Richards)S: W.........5% Langley, Swan Lane, Winterbourne, nr.
Bristol
Richards, Mrs. S$. W....... Do.
Ricketts, Miss J. B., B.Sc.,.. Los Angeles, Thingwall Park, Fishponds,
Bristol
Riddiford, Miss A. M., B.Sc. Pinecroft, Alveston, nr. Bristol
Robinson, Miss G., B.Sc. .. 9g Charlcombe Way, Bath, Som.
Rogers, Miss M. H., M.A... Wyvyan House, Clifton Pk., Clifton, Bristol, 8
Room, MissE.M......... Meadowside, Chew Stoke, nr. Bristol
TEACIC10 01 2250) Aa Do.
Room MirsoPs Jy ....0.... Do.
oseveare, Wolk. o..5. 0%. The Orchard House, Hutton, Weston-super-
Mare, Som.
Roslings ELINe ces ek. a ose 5 Kenneth Road, Brislington, Bristol, 4
Rosling, Mrs.H.N. ...... Do.
Ross, F. Stenhouse........ 25 Tugela Road, Uplands Estate, Bristol, 3
Salmond sPoW. .....6..... 22 Tyndall’s Park Road, Clifton, Bristol, 8
Sampson, INiiss vA IMS: 142 Coronation Road, Bristol, 3
Sandwith, Mrs. C.1.,F.L.S. 26 Canynge Square, Clifton, Bristol, 8
Sargent, ROGUE AL... 15 Upper Belgrave Road, Clifton, Bristol, 8
Savage, R. J. G., B.Sc.,
Ph.D.,F.L.S.,F.G.S.,F.Z.S. Dept. of Geology, University, Bristol, 8
DAVOMyA ems 0 cc's le 61 Lower Redland Road, Bristol, 6
Savory, Mrs. J-H......... Do.
Mee Savory, C.J. .....0.5...- Do.
C. Saver, MrsiS.... 26.0... The Gate House, Iford, Bradford-on-Avon,
Wilts.
Scadding, Miss M.P....... *“* Westover ”’, 13 Croomes Hill, Downend,
Bristol
#. DCASCHIRGyE tevschs iy sates a Ss Royal Horticultural Society’s Gardens,
A(7).
c.
Wisley, Ripley, Woking, Surrey
Scott, P.,°M.B.E., D.S.C., - °
M. i oti 5 SEE eee New Grounds, Slimbridge, Glos.
EWEN eel. See woe 59 Upper Oldfield Park, Bath, Som.
Sharpe, Gis Pei ae eee 22 Woodleigh Gardens, Whitchurch,
Bristol, 4
Slaw?! Miss\D......5..5... 48 Kellaway Ave., Westbury Pk., Bristol, 6
BbaweMtss Ts 13 Buckingham Vale, Clifton, Bristol, 8
Shepherd, Miss J.M....... 66 Inkerman Close, Horfield, ‘Bristol, y
Shepherd, Miss J.E....... 54 Wellington Walk, Westbury- -on-Trym,
Bristol, 9
Sheppard, B. ........65.. 124 Mount Hill Road, Hanham, Bristol
Shmacrdd. S............. 5 Dial Hill Road, Clevedon, Som.
90
OO
*
Th & 9
A(7).
MEMBERS
Shinner; Mrs Hose safe Do.
pilcocks; WW. Bi. scree Branksome, Beach Road, Kewstoke, Weston-
super-Mare, Som.
Simpson, Scott, M.A., Dr.
rer. nate, E.GsS: ee ei Geology Dept., Bristol University
Skene, Prof. M.;\ D:Se:,
Soe Oot ae At meen ee oa 36 Lawrence Grove, Westbury-on-Trym,
Bristol, 9
Skinner yIReAG es le cree 39 Apsley Road, Clifton, Bristol, 8
Sloane. h., BiSe.. 2-8. 2: Burwalls, Bristol, 8
Smisson, MissS.A. ...... 188 Redland Road, Bristol, 6
Smatth, Mrs. AwIM neue 69 Claremont Road, Bristol, 7
Smith D. Munro, M.R.C.S.,
BRIC Ps Sosy arene aes 220 Badminton Road, Downend, Bristol
Smith, P..G. Munro >. 2... Do.
mimmitia, BAS Joe teh ae teye 31 Cromwell Road, St. Andrews, Bristol, 7
Smith; even cin ay. eee 21 Upper Belmont Road, St. Andrews,
Bristol, 6
smith, Mrs. Ac) 0.6). 28 Bishop Road, Bishopston, Bristol, 7
Smith, Miss MAS Vn, 80 Hampstead Road, Bristol, 4
Spiers, D. R., M.B.O.U.,
AMienas. As © Ae ee. Timber Yard Cottage, Bradwell Grove,
Burford, Oxon
Sprage,: Miss Die tae. 28 Birdwell Road, Long Ashton, nr. Bristol
. Steadman, Miss V. E. M. 2 Kingsley Road, Cotham, Bristol, 6
terme, BI at bate sheers a tists g Charlcombe Way, Bath, Som.
WOSLCETY NE eye ore aseke eee 15 Acramans Road, Southville, Bristol, 3
Stott, D. H.,M.A., Ph.D. .. 13 Maurice Road, Bristol, 6
Stott, MMi. EL. ask ae) Do.
; Stott, Muss Min ics’ atteae Do.
s POLOtE AP. ele ie eae Do.
Stowell, Miss\Jo R..). ones 21 Victoria Square, Clifton, Bristol, 8
Stowell, Miss I.E. ........ Do.
Sutton, EG eee cians ote eetonede 14 Woodcroft Avenue, Whitehall, Bristol, 5
Swaine, Miss A. K., F.R.A.S. Pisang Cottage, Nailsea, Som.
Swanborough, Rik seene 24 Highland Avenue, Hanham, Bristol
Sweets Gea siscscsde sie cate 40 Cornwallis Crescent, Clifton, Bristol, 8
Sweet. Missio)i 32s seams one Do.
Sydenham, W.1.Ji: 225. . 230 Overndale Road, Fishponds, Bristol
«| Pages ph iete: shea Ros teva nate 2 Buckingham Vale, Clifton, Bristol, 8
asker, Suzi sae ii sy cae cene 4. Whiteladies Road, Bristol, 8
Maylor; Miss AJB.) sxe. « 16 Cotham Road, Bristol, 6
PaylorjFe Peele emaeees Harbury, Harbury Road, Westbury-on-
Trym, Bristol, 9
se aylor, Mass Pi eg peaitl Towerhurst, Church Road, Leigh Woods,
Bristol, 8
Taylor RB. Sic wee Preparatory School, Clifton College,
Bristol, 8
Taylor, S. M., B.Sc.,
S:DiMech. Baty dine cps Glenalan, Station Road, Nailsea, Som.
Taylor, Mrs! S.Mie ns. an): Do.
Metley,Virs sla sei me Lise 4 The Avenue, Sneyd Park, Bristol ,9
ThompsonJAs oie. see ae oe 107 Bradley Road, Trowbridge, Wilts
Thompson, Miss M.D..... 3 Pembroke Vale, Clifton, Bristol, 8
Tatchen; Wie tee ae ee 47 Shipley Road, Westbury-on-Trym,
Bristol, 9
Tozeland-Jones, MissS. J... 12 Florence Park, Westbury Park, Bristol, 6
Turner, H. W., M.A., F.G. S... The Cottage, Kensington Place, Clifton,
Bristol, 9
Wurner,/ Miss Ji7AG ane cs II St. Edyth’s Road, Sea Mills, Bristol, 9
~s
AQ
*
" Weir, Mrs. A. M.
Welch, F. B. A., B.Sc., Ph.D.,
*
Vallis, J. L. H.
Wamcewivirs, RD... 2...
Vance, D. J.
Wance, Miss MM. ..........
Vernon, W. F.
Vinnicombe,
M.A.
Weowles, JoFle i065. 56.22
eeoeseree ee ee
cece ese ee ee ee eo
eoece eee ee ee
eooceree ee ee ee ee © ©
\ canta eh Ie Al reir
Wakefield, Mrs.G.S. ....
Walker, MissA...........
Walker Miss Au...
Walker. Miss He ..........
Wallington, W. A.........
Wallington, Mrs. H.E.....
Wallington, Miss J.
Wallis, F. S., Ph.D., D.Sc.,
LL GES ease a a
Wareham, Miss C. A. L.
Wareham, MissF.........
Wareing, Miss N., B.Sc.....
Warne, L. G. G., M.Sc.,
ce eer eee eee eee ee eee
eeceeee
eeceeeeoe ee eee
eoecee ee ees ee e@
LD (CRISS «is malate eee en
NAY Ic od) WS re
WViestaiviiss| NT oes. ees
Westcott, Miss M. V.......
NGO 14 06 (rece
Whistler, L. D.
Wysante IDWS, ISOC... 5.0 5 oe.
Whittaker A..F... ss... 88
eooceece ee eee
Whittard, Prof. W. F., Ph.D.,
IDSe5.FG.S. ce
WR MICOX SINE. Joc ai elle a ese
Wrailkins 0A. Bo. 23... ee
Willams, E.G. .... 2. 8
Williams, Mrs. G. E.......
eoeceee ee ee eee
WN RR. bedi leaks eles
Wills, Wirs. RF...
Mxine@tt, MoH. ..... 2.8.
Wilson, Mrs. M. L.
Wiltshire, Miss M. O. P.,
D.Sc.
eee eee
MEMBERS
91
Hearne House, Pilton, Shepton Mallet, Som.
The Post Office, Nailsea, Som,
Do.
Do.
Wyngarth, Easter Compton, Bristol
Denver, Ridgeway, Long Ashton, Bristol
4 Brymore Close, Wembdon, Bridgwater,
Som.
6 Stoulton Road, Brentry, Bristol
Sheppardine House, nr. Thornbury, Bristol
** Vanda ’’, 2 Southwood Avenue, Coombe
Dingle, Bristol, 9
Manor Hall, Clifton Hull, Bristol, 8
24 Stanley Street, Stapleton Road, Bristol, 5
Do.
* Bregar;
Bristol
Do.
Do.
Station Road, Nailsea, nr.
City Museum, Bristol, 8
*“Corscombe ”’, Church Lane, Backwell,
Bristol.
Do.
Ivy Cottage, Compton Martin, Bristol
Karachi, Pakistan
9 Druid Road, Stoke Bishop, Bristol, 9
The Little House, Frenchay, Bristol
Do.
Elmside, Old Town, Wotton-U-Edge, Glos.
45 Egerton Road, Bishopston, Bristol, 7
Hursley Hill, Whitchurch, nr. Bristol
roe cee aan Survey, Exhibition Road,
.W.7
44 Conygre Road, Filton, Bristol, 7
18 Dennyview Road, Abbots Leigh, nr.
Bristol
20 Linden Road, Redland, Bristol, 6
Sunnyside, Hillside Road, Portishead, Som.
8 Dundonald Road, Redland, Bristol, 6
44. The Park, Kingswood, Bristol
Dept. of Geology, Bristol University
79 Manor Road, Fishponds, Bristol
2 Norland Road, Clifton, Bristol, 8
3 Queen Square, Bristol, 1
2 Belmont Road, Canford Cliffs, Bourne-
mouth
2 Westmorland Road, Redland, Bristol, 6
40 Claremont Road, Bishopston, Bristol, 7
Do.
4 Ravens Cross Road, Long Ashton, Bristol
Stuart House, Royal Fort, Bristol 6,
Clifton Hill House, Bristol, 8
12 Belluton Road, Bristol, 4
92
i,
MEMBERS
Mig sley H., F.R.E.S., Museum, North ‘Terrace, Adelaide, S.
ATES. Sen eae eRe Australia
Woodland, P., M.A. ...... Redwick, Dursley, Glos.
Wostenholm, Miss M. .... 162 Forest Road, Kingswood, Bristol
Wright; MiAL i). acne ot Woodside, Glebe Road, Long Ashton, Bristol
s AWering, (PAW Acti eee oe 27 Luckwell Road, Bedminster, Bristol, 3
Wynne, Mrs. V. J., B.Sc. .. 14 Church Street, Bridgwater, Som.
3) MCATeS, Wiass EB. iae . f ie are 485 Wells Road, Bristol, 4
Yemm; Prof, (E. W.; B:A.,
1D) Ed ot URE iments ea a ely Oa Stoneleigh, Long Ashton, nr. Bristol
Yemm, Mrs. E. W., B.A. .. Do.
Yonge, Prof. C. M., F.R.S.,
DSGir 2 bo aee oe eee The University, Glasgow
AFFILIATED SOCIETIES
Natural History Society, Diocesan Training College, Fishponds, Bristol
Natural History Society, Grammar School, Dursley, Glos.
Botanical and Zoological Societies, ‘The University, Bristol, 8
Geological Society Do. Do.
Natural History Society, City of Bath Training College, Newton Park,
Newton St. Loe, Bath
Scientific Society, Red Maids’ School, Westbury-on-Trym, Bristol
Bristol Grammar School Field Club, Elton Road, Bristol, 8
Kingswood Grammar School, nr. Bristol
Dursley & District Bird Watching & Preservation Society, Sec., Mr.
T. P. Walsh, 76 Kingshill Road, Dursley, Glos.
Scientific Group, H.M. Prison, Falfield, Glos.
Bath Natural History Society, 8 Pulteney Street, Bath.
St. Ursula’s High School Natural History Society, Brecon Road, Westbury- —
on-Trym, Bristol, 9
Social Club (Natural Science Section), Imperial Chemical Industries,
Limited, ‘‘ Trafalgar ’”, The Promenade, Clifton Down, Bristol, 8
University of Bristol, Horticultural Science Laboratories, Bracken Hill,
Leigh woods, Bristol, 8
93
REPORT OF COUNCIL
LOD9
This represents an increase of 27 members and three Affiliated Societies
over 1954.
At the Annual General Meeting the officers and members of Council were duly
elected. The President, Mr. Harry Savory, gave his Presidential Address on
“Birds and Bird Conservation in Holland’’. The decision of Council to elect
Professor C. M. Yonge, Dr. Harrison Matthews and Mr. H. O. Edmonds as
Honorary Members was announced.
A full programme of general and sectional meetings was arranged throughout
the year with two additional general meetings, one in October and one in Novem-
ber. It had been decided previously that no exhibition should be held.
The occasion of the visit to Bristol of the British Association (of which the
Bristol Naturalists are a Corresponding Society) was marked by an exhibition
which, through the kind offices of Dr. F. W. Wallis, was arranged at the City
Museum. Mr. P. F. Bird acted as co-ordinating secretary. At the two excellently
attended evening receptions for the Association held in the Museum the exhibits
(in the preparation of which all sections participated) were explained by members
of the Society.
A Junior Section was formed under Rule 27 with Members of the Section
becoming individually Associate Members of the Society.
The deaths of Mr. H. S. Damsell, Mr. G. S. Maunder, Dr. Stanley Smith
and Sir Arthur Trueman were noted with regret.
C. S. CARLILE, Hon. Secretary.
lk membership of the Society now stands at 440, with 13 Affiliated Societies.
MON: LIBRARIAN’S REPORT
O58)
URING the year the Library was used regularly. 251 books were actually
D borrowed and members made good use of reference works and journals.
; The binding of periodicals is now complete and our programme for 1956
1s :—
(a) To rearrange some of the shelves.
(b) To recatalogue the entire library and to include a shelf catalogue as well
as an author catalogue.
(c) To set aside a more convenient stand than the present one to hold
only new books and the most recent issue of any particular journal.
Back numbers will be removed to the standard shelves on the last day of
any month.
In the Library there is a suggestion book and Members are invited to indicate
titles that appeal to them both in the way of general works of interest and standard
reference books. Such suggestions will be considered as to their suitability by the
Library Committee. It is not envisaged, however, that we shall necessarily con-
sider with favour all the many standard text-books used by students.
If any Member has suggestions to make, perhaps he will be good enough to
send them in writing to the Hon. Librarian at the City Museum.
J. H. DAVIE, Hon. Librarian,
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95
elected Chairman in place of Mr. F. W. Evens, who has acted for the past
ten years in this capacity. The retiring Chairman was later presented with
a book-token in appreciation of the work he had done for the Section, Professor
M. Skene was re-elected President, Mrs. M. L. Davis, Hon. Secretary, and Dr.
A. F. Devonshire, Hon. Field Secretary. Committee Members elected Were :
Miss D. Shaw, Mrs. G. S. Wakefield, Mr. F. W. Evens and the Chairman and
Hon. Secretaries.
Field Walks were conducted throughout the Spring and Summer, and places
visited were as follows :—
April: Sham Castle and Bathampton. Mr. I. W. Evans.
May: Flax Bourton. Dr. A. F. Devonshire.
May: Abbots Leigh and Pool. Mrs. G. S. Wakefield.
June: Churchill and Winscombe. Mr. C. H. Cummins.
June: Leigh Woods. Mr. I. W. Evans and Mr. S. Sargent.
July: Cadbury Camp and Tickenham. Miss D. Shaw and Mrs. Gis:
Wakefield.
July: Dundry. Dr. A. F. Devonshire.
August : Observatory, Clifton Down. Mrs. G. S. Wakefield and Mr.
I. W. Evans.
August : Wick, Mr. I. W. Evans.
Sept.: Pucklechurch and Dyrham. Mr. F. W. Evens.
The gardens at Brandon Hill were visited in the spring, and during the summer
a number of visits were paid to the Royal Fort Gardens. By kind permission of the
Botany Department, visits were also paid to the University greenhouses and to the
Hiatt Baker memorial garden.
The Sectional meetings for the autumn and winter session were as follows :—
A LT the Annual Business Meeting held in January, Mr. I. W. Evans was
Jan. 17: Annual Business Meeting.
Mr. R. W. Marsh—Plant Disease Control.
Feb. 21: Mr. G. Maxwell-Davis—Common British grasses and clovers
and their uses in agriculture.
Mar. 21: Prof. M. Skene—Parasitism in Plants.
Oct. 17: Short Talks by members :—
Mr. I. W. Evans—The pressing and preserving of herbarium
specimens.
Dr. A. F. Devonshire—The New Forest, an ecological sketch.
Miss D. Shaw—Growth of the tea-plant.
Mrs. G. S. Wakefield—A visit to Kew Gardens.
No. 21: Mr. A. J. Willis—The Ecology of Braunton Burrows, N. Devon.
Wee. 12: Mr. S. E. Arney—Morphogenesis of the strawberry plant.
The Botanical Section was well represented at the B.N.S. Exhibition in the
City Museum, held in connection with the British Association Meeting in Septem-
ber. The following exhibits were staged by members :—
Rare plants of the Bristol district (herbarium specimens) : Mr. I. W. Evans.
Plants of the Severn salt marshes: Mrs. M. L. Davis, Mr. I. W. Evans and
Mr. and Mrs. R. F. Wills.
Liverworts : Mrs. C. I. Sandwith.
Mycetozoa: Mr. F. W. Evens.
Colour transparencies of wild flowers: Mr. R. F. Wills and Mrs. M. L.
Davis.
M. L. DAVIS, Hon. Secretary.
96
REPORT OR
ENTOMOLOGICAL S&S
1955
the Botany Lecture Theatre, the University of Bristol.
Mr. N. A. Watkins was elected President, and Mr. C. L. Bell Secre-
tary of the Section.
After the conclusion of formal business the meeting adjourned, at the
President’s invitation, to the Grand Hotel for informal discussion.
Apart from the Annual Meeting there were three other meetings as follows :
Feb. 7: Talk by Mr. R. Bassindale, on Social Insects.
Oct. 4: Inspection of the Lepidoptera Collections in the City Museum.
Nov. 8: Annual Exhibition.
The Annual Conference of the Society for British Entomology was held in
Bristol during July, the Secretary being Organiser. The Conference was a success
and there was a joint field meeting at Priddy, which members of the Section
attended.
Ts gist Annual Meeting of the Section was held on January 3, 1955, in
CECIL BELL, Hon. Secretary.
97
were elected :—President, Mr. F. Stenhouse Ross; Vice-Presidents,
Dr. F. Coles Phillips and Dr. Stanley Smith ; Hon. Secretary, Dr. I. S.
Loupekine ; Committee, Prof. W. F. Whittard (ex officio), Mr. T. R. Fry, Mr.
F. J. W. Holwill, Mr. C. E. Leese, Dr. A. Marsden, Mrs. M. M. Perkins, Dr.
R. J. G. Savage, Mr. H. S. Shinner, Dr. Scott Simpson, Mr. H. W. Turner, Mrs.
A T the Annual Business Meeting held on January goth, the following Officers
Two exhibitions were held during the year, both in the Bristol City Museum
(by kind permission of the Director). The January Exhibition was open during
the evening of 20th and all day on gist. It included items contributed by various
members of the Section as well as members of the Geology Department of the
University and by the City Museum.
The second exhibition, held 2nd—6th September, was arranged in connection
with the visit to Bristol of the British Association. More than 14 members con-
tributed rocks, minerals and fossils of the Bristol region. ‘There were also exhibits
on local water supply, building stones and geological industries.
Members of the section, under the leadership of Mr. Fry, spent much time
during the summer excavating on Dundry hill, where the old quarries had become
overgrown. ‘They re-exposed the oolites and collected many fossils from this
famous site. The British Association was keenly appreciative of the work done
and awarded the section a small grant towards continuance of the work. Efforts
are being made to have the site preserved.
The following field meetings were held during the year :—
Apr. 20: (Leader Mr. F. R. Sterne) Saltford (Lias nodules and Sewage
Works).
May 7: (Leader Dr. D. T. Donovan) Weymouth (Upper Jurassic
Succession).
June 1: (Leader Mr. F.S. Ross) Dundry.
July 2: (Leader Mr. T. R. Fry) Failand (jointly with Dr. Wallis’s
Tutorial Class).
Aug. 10: (Leader Mr. T. R. Fry) Dundry.
The following general meetings were held during the year :—
Feb. 15: Miss P. Lampugh Robinson—Reptile finds in Mesozoic fissures
in the Bristol Channel Area.
Mar. 17: Dr. F. J. North—W. D. Conybeare and his geological contem-
poraries.
Oct. 18: Dr. J. F. Nye—Motion of Glaciers.
Nov. 17: Prof. L. Hawkes, F.R.S.—The Present—Key to the Pastt.
It is with the deepest regret that the Section records the death of Dr. Stanley
Smith, Vice-President, and Sir Arthur Trueman, Past President.
R. J. G. SAVAGE, Hon. Secretary.
98
REPORT ©f8
ORNITHOLOGICAL SEC?IOWN
I
995
HE membership of the Section has continued to
| increase during the year and, with 21 new mem-
bers and 8 resignations, has now reached a
total of 158.
At the Annual Business Meeting, held on Feb, 2,
the Officers of the Section were unanimously re-
elected and Mrs. S. M. Taylor and Mr. B. King were
elected to serve on the General Committee in succession
to Mr. R. V. Culverwell and the late Mr. W. R. Taylor.
vrae Waewin) UA irenaitic toe With the increase in work entailed by the larger number
THE WREN 77 ALL BIRDS. of records being submitted for publication, it was
decided to form an Editorial Committee consisting of
the President and Hon. Secretary (ex officio), and Messrs. B. King, R. H. Poulding
and M. A. Wright. This Committee will be elected annually, its members being
eligible for re-election.
Eight other meetings were held in the winter session as follows :—
Jan. 19: Mr. G. Mountfort—Some observations on the Hawfinch.
Feb. 2: Annual Business Meeting : Messrs. D. M. and R. S. Cormack—
Caithness and its Birds.
Feb. 18: Miss K. Tousey—Audubon’s America.
Mar. 16: Lt.-Col. N. Rankin—Wildlife in South Georgia.
Apr. 1: Field-work Programme Meeting.
Sept. 28: Exhibits and Communications by members.
Oct. 21: Mr. P. J. Conder: The life history of the Wheatear.
Nov. 25: Mr. H. G. Hurrell—Dippers and Pine Martens.
Dec. 9: Mr. H. J. Boyd—On being a Goose.
The average attendance was 84.
Three evening field-walks were arranged during May—over Barrow Hill and
Bourton Combe on the grd, at Saltford on the 12th and Little Stoke Farm, Patch-
way on the 26th. A very successful all-day excursion to Abbotsbury took place
on May 15.
As in recent years the main activity of the Section has been co-operative
field-work. The programme, arranged at the April meeting, included a repeat
census of the rookeries within the boundaries of the City and County of Bristol,
and an investigation into the movements of Herring Gulls from Steep Holm—
by means of sight records of birds caught and dyed red on the tail—to supplement
ringing recoveries. The Buzzard survey of the 1954 sample area of N. Somerset
was repeated and combined with the Wood Warbler Distribution Enquiry.
Members also assisted with census work on the Mute Swan and Heron for the
British Trust for Ornithology, in addition to continuing to complete B.T.O. nest
and roost record cards.
In the autumn the diurnal migration watches were enthusiastically supported
and, with the help of neighbouring societies, a much more comprehensive study
was made possible than in the two preceding years.
The eight registered ringers in the Section ringed nearly 2,000 birds during the
year. Included in this total were Hen Harriers, Fulmars and 1 Greenshank ringed
in Scotland, Black-headed Gulls and Curlew in Wales, and 170 Herring Gulls
trapped at night on Steep Holm. In addition large numbers of passerines,
including 279 Blue Tits, 209 Starlings, 143 Greenfinches and 159 House Sparrows,
were trapped locally. |
Fuller details about the above-mentioned field-work, ringing and subsequent |
recoveries, will appear in the Field-work Report, 1955, to be published in the |
Autumn. |
P. J. CHADWICK, Hon. Secretary. |
99
HE 92nd Annual General Meeting was held on January 27th, when the
election of Officers and Council for the ensuing year took place.
The subject of the Presidential address by Mr. Harry Savory was
-** Birds and Bird Conservation in Holland ”’, which was introduced by a topo-
graphical description of the country. By means of lantern slides which reproduced
the lecturer’s own photographs, the abundant and varied bird life of Holland was
described, including the Avocet, Spoonbill, Ruff, Cormorant, Heron and Stork.
At the General Meeting held on February 24th, Mr. George Meade King, a
member of the British Alpine Club, introduced the film “‘ The Conquest of Everest”
to a well-attended meeting of members and guests at the Physics Lecture Theatre,
During October two General Meetings were held. On October 6th, Mr.
-E. L. Kelting, Chief Engineer of the Somerset River Board, lectured on “‘ The
Bridgwater Bay Nature Reserve ’’, describing the artificial Huntspill River and
the 6,000 acres of Nature Reserve along the coast. Dr. Steven of the Marine
Biological Station, Plymouth, was prevented by illness from lecturing at the second
meeting on the 27th, when Members welcomed Dr. Kitching of the Zoology
Department of the University, who introduced two remarkable colour films.
The first dealt with Connemara and the second with Lough Ine where valuable
experiments in marine biology had been conducted.
Two General Meetings were also held in November, the additional meeting
being of a special nature, when on November 10th Mr. Mervyn Cowie introduced
his film “‘ The Game Animals of Kenya” on behalf of the Fauna Preservation
Society to a large number of Members and others in the Physics Lecture Theatre.
- On the 24th, Dr. F. S. Wallis, Director of the City Museum, gave an illustrated
lecture on “‘ The Contacts of Archaeology and Petrology’. Dr. Wallis traced
the history of Science through a period of intense differentiation to one of mutual
interdependence and dealt with many aspects of Archaeology and Petrology in
England and Wales.
At the last General Meeting of the year, Mr. Philip Brown, Secretary of the
Royal Society for the Preservation of Birds was unable to lecture through illness.
Fortunately, Mr. George Edwards, a member of the Council of the same Society,
_-was able to take his place when Members enjoyed an Ornithological lecture of
unusual interest and were shown three films of great beauty dealing with bird life.
The Meetings held during the year were well attended and appreciated as
were the General Field Meetings organised in connection with the spring and
summer programme.
GENERAL FIELD MEETINGS 1955
Date District Leaders
23 April Inglestone Common and Wickwar Mr. C. L. Bell
Mr. & Mrs. D. Cullen
21 May The Arboretum Mr. Ivor Evans
18 June Badminton Mrs. R. Millard
Miss M. Habgood
9 July Uphill and Brean Down Mr A. C. K. Fear
13 August The Quantocks Mr. T. H. Payne
Mr. P. Room
10 September Mells Dr. Devonshire
Mr. & Mrs. D. Cullen
C. S. CARLILE, Hon. Secretary.
e
100
OBITUARY
Dr. STANLEY SMITH
N Dr. Stanley Smith, who died on July 1, 1955, the Society
has lost one of its most distinguished members in the academic
sphere. Born in Middlesbrough, he graduated at Armstrong
College, Newcastle, and had worked in the universities of Cam-
bridge, Aberystwyth, London and Toronto before he came to
Bristol, as a lecturer in the Department of Geology at the university,
in 1922. He was then, at the age of 39, already an internationally
known expert on fossil corals. ‘Throughout his time in Bristol he
continued to research in this field and his life’s work on rugose
corals is generally recognised to be as substantial an original con-
tribution to palaeontology as that of any British contemporary.
However, Dr. Smith’s interests were by no means narrow. He
had worked on the lead and zinc ores of Northumberland and he
made contributions to the stratigraphy of the Bristol area, some
of which were published in these Proceedings. He was also very
knowledgeable in Greek and Roman antiquities and had largely
completed an interpretation of Theophrastus’s writings on minerals.
at the time of his death.
The Society, of which he was an active member from his first
year in Bristol, had the advantage of his leadership on numerous |
geological excursions. He was hon. secretary of the South
Western Naturalist’s Union for many years and served a term of
office as president.
Retirement from his post as reader in palaeontology in 1948
did not interrupt Dr. Smith’s researches nor his active participation.
in the life of the Bristol Naturalists Society ; nor was he daunted
by the developing affliction of his illness.
All those who were associated with him remember with gratitude
how his great fund of knowledge was always readily available to.
them, and they miss his patient explanations and courteous,
unassuming manner. The warm sympathy of the Society is
extended to Mrs. Smith. |
Wete TOL BOTANY IN 1955
By Cecit I. ano N. Y. SANDWITH
(Read in title to Council, May 3, 1956. Received Feb. 9, 1956.)
VERY backward spring ended in a wet and chilly May and
A early June, but was followed by a perfect summer, the
best we have had since 1947.
Last summer’s good weather continued into the autumn and the
trees kept their beautiful colours up to the end of November,
which was a better month than usual. The gardens suffered from
the drought of July and August, the wilting ground flora of the
woods was a distressing sight, and the summer wild flowers went
over very quickly.
But the balance was redressed in December, which ended in gales
and heavy rain, spoiling the Christmas holiday for outdoor
pleasures.
In the following notes the initials G.W.G. are those of Mr. G. W,
Garlick. We are much indebted to Mr. C. E. Hubbard for help
with the identification of grasses.
Corydalis solida (L.) Sw. Combe Dingle, G., perhaps on the site of
an old cottage garden now vanished, A. G. H. Sargent.
Papaver Lecogii Lamotte. Marshfield, G., Dr. D. Munro Smith.
Nasturtium microphyllum Rchb. Inglestone Common, Gs 1951, 2.
Milne-Redhead, see Proc. Cotteswold Nat. Field Club for 1953,
vol. xxxi. p. 256 (1955).
N. microphyllum Rchb. x officinale R.Br. Boxwell, G., 1951, E. Milne-
Redhead, loc. cit.
Lepidium latifolium L. Is still at Berrow, $. Dr. D. Munro Smith reports
a single plant from the sand-dunes.
Raphanus maritimus Sm. Still at Brean, S., in some plenty at the
edge of cliffs on the south side of the Down, 1952, 7. C. Gardiner.
Melandrium album (Mill.) Garcke x dioicum (L.) Coss. et Germ.
Hybrids between the White and Red Campion were indicated
by Mr. White (Flora, p. 187) as occurring in our district and
have recently been collected on Wapping Wharf, Bristol
Harbour, and at Avonmouth Dock, G., 1947, by C.I.S. and
N.Y.S., and on the Ridge Estate, Yate, G., 1953, by G.W.G.
See also “ Bristol Botany in 1923’ for a record from Clapton-
in-Gordano, 8. The characters of such hybrids have been well
102 CECIL I. AND N. Y. SANDWITH
tabulated by Dr. H. G. Baker in his account of these species
for the Biological Flora of the British Isles (Journ. of Ecology, 35,
P- 271, 1947).
Sagina maritima Sm. On the river wall, Sheperdine, G., G.W.G.
Hypericum montanum L. Compton Martin Wood, S., W.Y.S.
Tilia cordata Mill. Hutton Wood ; King’s Wood, Winscombe;
Rodney Stoke Wood ; and Asham Wood, S., Dr. V. W. Moore
and JNVi.1).S.
Vitis vinifera L. Established in Cheddar Gorge, S., J. W. Evans.
Lotus tenuis Waldst. et Kit. By the Severn below Berkeley,
G., abundant in one place, R. B. Abell and C. W. Bannister,
see Proc. Cotteswold Nat. Field Club for 1952, vol. xxxi. p. 147
(T954)- |
Lathyrus sylvestris L. Railway embankment below Iron Acton
Church, G., G.W.G. |
L. Nissolia L. Grassy bank, Sheperdine, G., Mrs. D. Munro Smith. |
Sorbus porrigentiformis EK. F. Warburg. On Worlebury Hill, both |
above Weston-super-Mare and on the side above Kewstoke, |
S., Dr. E. F. Warburg. |
Cotoneaster horizontalis Dene. A very small bush is established on a |
rocky slope of Clifton Down, G., V.Y.S.
C. microphylla Lindl. Quarry under Tytherington Camp, and at
Engine Common, Yate, G., G.W.G.
Saxifraga granulata L. Hillside at Hawkesbury, G., Dr. D. Munro
Smith. A most interesting addition to the Glos. side of our’
area, the Wotton and Dursley records given in Fl. Glos. (p. |
209) being still doubtful. |
Callitriche platycarpa Kiitz. In an important paper dealing with
species occurring in the Netherlands, a Dutch student of
Callitriche, Dr. H. D. Schotsman, has shown that C. platycarpa
is a good species, distinguished from C. stagnalis Scop. by
characters of the stigmas, seeds and pollen-grains. Dr. W. A.
Sledge, of the Botany Dept. of Leeds University, sent on loan:
to Dr. Schotsman Miss Roper’s gathering from Alveston Old
Church, G., which was recorded in White’s Flora (p. 528) |
and Fl. Glos. (p. 218) as C. palustris L. Dr. Schotsman has
identified it as C. platycarpa. C. palustris may now safely be
removed from the Bristol list : in fact there seems to be no
evidence for its occurrence in Britain. |
Epilobium hirsutum L. With white flowers in a ditch bordering a/
lane leading from Siston Common to Bridgeyate, G., Dr. D.
BRISTOL BOTANY IN 1955 103
Munro Smith. The clumps grew alternately with others of
the typical pink-flowered form.
E. palustre L. Marsh by the railway, Engine Common, Yate, G.,
G.W.G.
E. adenocaulon Hausskn. Williselm Farm, Hill, and Oldbury
Naite, G., G.W.G. Asham Wood, S., N.Y.S.
Apium inundatum (L.) Rchb. fil. Pond at Little Sodbury End,
Sodbury Common, G., G.W.G.
Galium Cruciata L. Wood-border above Hutton, S., NV.Y.S.
G. pumilum Murray. In limestone grassland above Cheddar
Wood, S., WV.V.S.
G. tricorne Stokes. Beet field above Beek’s Mill, Marshfield, G., |
G.W.G.
Valerianella carinata Lois. On the pavement, The Parade, Hotwells,
Bristol, G., G.W.G.
Inula crithmoides L. A single large plant with many flowering stems,
probably at least 2 years old, has appeared at the north end
of Berrow salt-marsh, 8. First noticed last May by Dr. A. 7.
Willis, and the first record for the mainland of North Somerset.
~The most likely origin of this plant is seed brought by some
-agency from the colony on the southern cliffs of Steep Holm
which face the shore at Berrow.
Cirsium dissectum (L.) Hill x palustre (L.) Scop. Wet field by
Woodend Lane, Hill, G., June 1943, E. Nelmes in Herb. Kew.,
and recorded as *‘ between Hill and Rockhampton ”’ in B.E.C.,
1943-44 Rep. p. 733 (1946), but omitted from Fl. Glos. which
was probably in the press at that time.
C. arvense (L.) Scop. var. mite Wimm. et Grab. Redland, G.,
Herb. Ley, see Fl. Glos. p. 291. Glen Frome, Stapleton, G.,
1920, C.l.S. and N.Y.S. Roadside, Failand Hill, S., 1920,
CLS. and N.Y.S. The first records for this not infrequent
variety, which is wild and is not to be confused with the
adventive vars. vestitum and integrifolium.
Freracium glevense (Pugsl.) Sell et C. West. Side of towpath below
Léigh Woods, S., 1954, B. Miles, det. Sell and West. Formerly
placed under H. exotericum Jord., this species is the H.pellucidum
of White, Flora, p. 405, and is now recorded for the first time
for North Somerset.
H1. salticola (Sudre) Sell et C. West. Leigh Woods, S., A.H.G.
Alston, det. Sell and West. A member of the Section Sabauda,
and possibly the H. boreale Fries of White, Flora, p. 409, from
this locality, but there are no specimens from Leigh Woods in
104 CECIL I. AND N. Y. SANDWITH
the White, Bucknall or Roper Herbaria. 4. salticola is dis-
tinguished by almost glabrous phyllaries and deeply toothed
leaves.
Lysimachia Nummularia L. Mr. Garlick’s important discovery of
ripe capsules and seeds on plants of Creeping Jenny observed
during the hot, dry summer and autumn on a ditchbank at
Spar Pools, Yate, G., is fully described by him in a note
published this year in Proc. Bot. Soc. Brit. Is. The remark in
the new British Flora, ‘‘ Fr. apparently never produced in
Britain ’’, can now be modified.
Menyanthes trifoliata L. In a sphagnum marsh by the railway;
Engine Common, Yate, G., G.W.G.
Symphytum orientale L. Roadside near Longwood House, Failand,
SG. Svand NY.S:
Lithospermum arvense L. Hinton, G., Dr. D. Munro Smith. Cornfield
between Froglane Farm and Ramhill, Westerleigh ; and beet
field above Beek’s Mill, Marshfield, G., G.W.G.
Veronica filiformis Sm. By the Frome at the foot of Bury Hill,
Winterbourne, G., G.W.G.
Euphrasia confusa Pugsl. On Mendip N.E. of Cheddar, S., also
a hybrid of this species and E. anglica Pugsl., 1953, P.F. Yeo.
Stachys x ambigua Sm. Hook Row, Berkeley, G., G.W.G.
Atriplex littoralis L. On tidal mud at Avonmouth, G., 1953, C. W.
Bannister, see Proc. Cotteswold Nat. Field Club for 1953, vol.
XXX1, p. 259 (1955). Avery interesting discovery for the Glos.
side of the district.
Euphorbia platyphyllos L. Rediscovered “‘ several years ago”’ in a
field below South Stoke, Bath, §., in the area where it was
known to the Bath botanists of the last century, Miss F. M.
Barton.
E. Cyparissias L. Still in great plenty in Miss Roper’s locality at
Whitewell Bottom, G., G.W.G. and N.Y.S.
Juglans regia L. At least three Walnut trees are well established in
woods above Hutton, S., Dr. NV. W. Moore and N.Y.S.
Betula pubescens Ehrh. Horton Great Trench, Lower Woods ; and
Ramhill, Coalpit Heath, G., G.W.G. Confirmed by Dr. E. F.
Warburg. Mr. White (Flora, p. 544) gave no records from the
Glos. side, but confessed to uncertainty in determining Birches.
There is a single record of B. pubescens from Stinchcombe Hill
in Fl. Glos., p. 430.
Carpinus Betulus L. Rare in Compton Martin Wood, S., Dr. V. W.
Moore and N.Y.S.
2
BRISTOL BOTANY IN 1955 105
Quercus petraea (Mattuschka) Liebl. x Robur L. Lyncombe Hill
Woods, Sandford ; and in Rodney Stoke Wood, S., Dr. NV. W.
Moore and N.Y.S.
Q. Cerris L. Hutton Wood, S., zd.
Q. Ilex L. ‘Trees are established near the S.W. border of Cheddar
Wood, S., zd. j
Salix triandra L. Streamside between Leechpool Farm and Engine
Common, Yate ; by the Frome, Mill Lane, Chipping Sodbury ;
and near Scotland’s Farm, Hill, G., G.W.G.
Epipactis purpurata Sm. Priest Wood, Cromhall, G., E. P. Bury.
Orchis Fuchs Druce xX _ praetermissa Druce. Pondside, Horton
Hall, G., G.W.G.
O. praetermissa Druce. Meadow at Parkfield Colliery South,
Shortwood ; and a few plants at Ramhill, Coalpit Heath, G.,
G.W.G. Marshy valley in Asham Wood, S., N.Y.S.
Gymnadenia conopsea (L.) R. Br. var. densiflora (Wahlenb.) Rchb.
Shapwick Moor, S., 1919, Miss I. M. Roper, see B.E.C. 1919
Rep., vol. v. p. 681. Max Meadow, Winscombe, S., 1919, zd.
Specimens from both localities are in Miss Roper’s herbarium
at Leeds University and have now been verified by Mr. V. S.
Summerhayes. The variety is tall and robust, with a dense
spike of more rosy-red flowers, and is usually found in fens.
Platanthera chlorantha (Custer) Rchb. Compton Martin Wood ;
and Asham Wood, S., W.YV.S.
Ins foetidissima L. Frequent in Shiplate Wood, between Loxton
and Bleadon, S., Dr. N. W. Moore and N.Y.S.
Leucojum aestivum L. Several clumps thoroughly established among
Ramsons and Bluebells in a wood near Dyrham, G., 1954,
Dr. D. Munro Smith.
Allium vineale L. var. vineale. Lane near Severn House Farm,
Berkeley, G., G.W.G.
Juncus compressus L. Abundant by the Severn below Berkeley, G.,
C. W. Bannister, see Proc. Cotteswold Nat. Field Club for 1952,
vol. xxxl. p. 153 (1954).
Acorus Calamus L. Pond in quarry below Tytherington Camp, G.,
G.W.G.
|Alisma lanceolatum With. Ditch along Hill Lane, Hill, G., G.W.G.
Baldellia ranunculoides (L.) Parl. Pond, Engine Common, Yate,
G., G.W.G.
Sagittaria sagitiifolia L. In the Frome, Damson’s Bridge, Winter-
bourne Down, G., G.W.G.
106 CECIL I. AND N. Y. SANDWITH
Kannichellia palustris L. var. pedicellata Wahlenb. et Rosen. Rhine
_ by the Severn running into the Berkeley Pill, G., G.W.G.
Eriophorum angustifolum Honck. Marsh by railway, Engine
Common ; and marsh below Yate Rocks, G., G.W.G.
Carex X evoluta Hartm. (C. lastocarpa Ehrh. xX riparia Curt.).
We learn with great pleasure from Dr. A. F. Willis that he has
rediscovered this hybrid in its solitary British station on the
peat of Sharpham Moor Plot, S. Some time during the
*thirties this plant disappeared when the plot was overgrown
by carr, and it was thought to be extinct. The ground has now
been cleared and Dr. Willis reports that the sedge is abundant
over an area of several square yards. ‘This is a most interesting
and instructive example of vegetative survival through a long
phase of darkness beneath a tangle of bushes.
C’. pallescens L. Asham Wood, S., NV.Y.S.
C. extensa L. Several plants on mud-flats near the Old Church,
Clevedon, S., J. W. Evans.
C’. arenaria L. By the Portishead railway below the Suspension
Bridge, Clifton, S., J. W. Evans. Evidently an introduction
in this strange habitat.
Milium effusum L. A single tuft of a form with striped leaves, like
those of the var. picta of Phalaris arundinacea, was noticed in
the woodland of Wapley Bushes, G., by Mr. I. W. Evans.
Rodney Stoke Wood, S., N.Y.S.
Festuca longifolia ‘Thuill. Burnham sand-dunes, S., May 1952,
I. W. Evans, det. C. E. Hubbard. ‘The first record for the district
of this grass, which was probably sown in this locality. It is a
member of the difficult ovina group.
x Festulolium Holmberg (Do6rfl.) P.Fournier. (Festuca arundinacea —
Schreb. x Lolium perenne L.). With the parents on the grassy
verge of the towpath by the Avon near Clifton Bridge Station, |
S., CLS. and N.Y.S... Confirmed by Mr. C. E. Hubbard, and
the first record of this hybrid for our district. It has been |
collected in Britain on very few occasions but is doubtless
overlooked. Known by its intermediate habit. and facies, —
ciliate leaf-auricles and sterile pollen.
Bromus Thomini Hard. Old mining ground, Velvet Bottom, |
Charterhouse-on-Mendip, S., 1954, C. C. Townsend, det. C. EB. |
Aubbard.
Adiantum capillus-veneris L. Was been known for many years on |
the south churchyard wall at Batheaston, S. Miss E. H.
Stevenson informs us that the first record known to her came
from the late C. D. Heginbotham in 1930.
BRISTOL BOTANY IN 1955 107
Polystichum lobatum (Huds.) Woynar. Burberrow Lane, Wester-
leigh Hill, G., G.W.G.
Chara globularis ‘Thuill. var. capillacea (Thuill.) Zanev. Pond,
Froglane Pit, Coalpit Heath, G., G.W.G.
ALIENS. Sisymbrium altissimum L. Arable land above Hutton,
S., MVS.
Trigonella coelesyriaca Boiss. Avonmouth Dock, G., C..S. and
NEES!
Guizotia abyssinica (L. fil.) Cass. Quarry at Fishponds, G., Dr. D.
Munro Smith, det. I. W. Evans.
Mentha x alopecuroides Hull. Waste ground, Fishponds, G., Dr. D.
Munro Smith, det. R. A. Graham.
Chenopodium Bonus-Henricus L. Waste ground, Bridge Street,
Bristol, G., J. W. Evans. Not recorded as a Bristol alien for
very many years.
C. hybridum L. Waste ground, Horsefair, Bristol, G., [. W. Evans
and G.W.G.
Asparagus officinalis L. subsp. officinalis. Railway embankment near
Iron Acton Station, G., G.W.G.
Panicum capillare L. var. occidentale Rydb. In the garden of St.
- Catherine’s Court, Bath, 8., G.W.G. Identified by Mr. C. E.
Hubbard, who points out that this variety, with longer and
more pointed spikelets, is the plant usually met with in this
country.
Echinochloa frumentacea Link. St. Anne’s tip, S., 1954, I. W. Evans.
Sorghum caffrorum Beauv. var. breviaristatum Snowden. Portway tip,
_ below Sneyd Park, G., Oct. 1950, C.l.S. The var. albtdum
(Koern.) Snowden was collected on the same tip in Sept. 1952,
by C.I.S. The specimens were kindly identified by Mr. 7. D.
Snowden. ‘The previous record from this tip of S. vulgare Pers.,
sens. lat., in *‘ Bristol Botany in 1952’, probably refers to one
of these two varieties of S. caffrorum.
Nardus stricta L. Wapping Wharf, Bristol Harbour, G., 1946,
I. W. Evans. A very unexpected species to add to the Adventive
Flora.
Catapodium rigidum (L.) C. E. Hubbard var. major (J. B. Presl)
Lousley. Ashton Gate tip, S., 1940, J. W. Evans. This adventive
variety, like Mr. Evans’s other grasses, was determined by Mr.
Hubbard.
Lolium persicum Boiss. et Hohen. Avonmouth Dock, G., 1954,
C. GC. Townsend, and 1955, C.I.S. and N.V.S., det. C. E. Hubbard.
New to the Adventive Flora.
108 CECIL I. AND N. Y. SANDWITH
L. temulentum L. Roadside near Farmborough, S., 1954, Mrs. E.
M. E. Bell.
In Proc. Bot. Soc. Brit. Is., vol. 1, pt.4, pp. 562-563 (Oct. 1955), the
Department of Botany of the University of Bristol announces the
initiation of experimental sowing and transplants of seven of our
rare limestone species in natural habitats where they do not at
present occur. The species are Arabis stricta, Helianthemum apenninum,
Geranium sanguineum, Trima glauca, Linosyris vulgaris, Veronica spicata
subsp. Aybrida and Koeleria vallesiana. ‘The aim of these experiments
is to study the many possible reasons for the restriction of such
species to certain habitats. ‘The announcers appeal to those who
find these seven species in new habitats to communicate with them
before reporting the find publicly or privately. The finder may
then be asked to regard the knowledge as confidential, since the
outcome of the experiments must be safeguarded. “‘ After the
experimental stage has passed, it should be possible to announce the
location of the sites. ”’
Such experiments are doubtless of great scientific interest and
value, but we should like to plead that the location of the sites not
merely may, but must, eventually be published. If this is not done,
and if such experiments are extended, the work of those who study
and record the natural distribution of British plants is gravely
impaired, while old-fashioned field-botanists will continually
suspect the presence of a sinister ‘‘ fifth column ”’ which is working
against them.
We cannot end these notes without reference to the excellent and
most enjoyable sketch of the vegetation of our area by Dr. J. F. Hope-
Simpson and Dr. A. J. Willis, which was published in the volume
‘* Bristol and its Adjoining Counties ’’, on the occasion of the visit of
the British Association last September.
109
BRISTOL BIRD REPORT
nOD0
COMPILED BY THE EDITORIAL COMMITTEE OF THE
B.N.S. ORNITHOLOGICAL SECTION
P. J. GHADWICK B. Kine
H. H. Davis R. H. PouLpIneG
M. A. WRIGHT
(Read in title to Council, May 3, 1956. Received April 9, 1956.)
HIS issue covers records for 1955, and is the result of obser-
vations by forty-three members of the Ornithological Section
and various non-members. Although bearing the revised title
BRISTOL BIRD REPORT it is in continuation of issues published
annually in the Proceedings of the Society from 1936 under the
heading ORNITHOLOGICAL NOTES, BRISTOL DISTRICT,
and is, therefore, the twentieth of the series. Reports for subsequent
years will continue to appear with the revised title.
Noteworthy records from the North Somerset reservoirs include
those of a Ferruginous Duck at Chew Valley in January ; a Black-
throated Diver at Cheddar in February ; a Bittern at Blagdon in
February-March ; twenty-five Bewick’s Swans at Cheddar in
March ; a Glaucous Gull and a Sandwich Tern at Chew Valley in
March and June respectively ; and a Red-breasted Merganser at
Cheddar in December. A Shag was recovered at Cheddar in
August and another at Chew Valley in October, while at the former
a Little Auk spent ten days or longer in the second half of December.
From Chew Valley there are breeding records of Garganey,
Shoveler and Tufted Duck, and at the same place the breeding of
Shelduck and Lesser Black-backed Gull was proved for the first
time at any Somerset reservoir. Following the abnormally dry
summer, water levels during the autumn passage were extremely
low, and many waders were reported. Green Sandpipers at Chew
Valley reached the unusually large total of twenty-two (Aug. 28th),
while Greenshank numbers at the same reservoir were correspond-
ingly high. With an abundance of feeding ground available,
Ringed Plover, Turnstone, both Godwits, Wood Sandpiper, Spotted
Redshank, Knot, Little Stint, Dunlin and Ruff were also observed
at Chew Valley on autumn migration.
The event of the year was the occurrence on three successive
110 BRISTOL BIRD REPORT
days in March of a male Ring-necked Duck at the Wildfowl Trust’s
headquarters, Slimbridge—a new bird for Gloucestershire, and the
first authentic record of the species in Europe. Other interesting
visitors to the New Grounds included a Greylag Goose and two
Lesser White-fronts among common White-fronts, January-March ;
a Little Egret in April ; a Leach’s Petrel in September; a Whooper
Swan in November ; and an Avocet in December.
From other localities are records of a Hoopoe at East Harptree in
April and another at Slimbridge in August; Montagu’s Harriers.
on Mendip in May; and Spotted Redshanks at Sand Bay and
Dyrham Park in August-September. An Iceland Gull among
roosting Herring Gulls on Steep Holm in March was, perhaps,
the same bird as that seen at Barrow Gurney reservoirs and
Bedminster Bridge in January-February. Another Iceland Gull
was identified at Weston-super-Mare in December.
As usual in recent years Buzzards were reported from far and wide.
At nests located (two only) there was nothing to show that young
were reared nor was there evidence of a successful eyrie anywhere
in the area under review. The failure of birds to bring off young
was, doubtless, an outcome of myxomatosis and the consequent
widespread scarcity of the rabbit.
Unless otherwise stated the records below refer only to 1955,
and for the most part are the result of contributions by the following
members: R. Angles, A. E. Billett, H. J. Boyd, G. Bright, B. K.
Brooke, G. C. Buxton, Mrs. S. I. Buxton, P. J. Chadwick, Miss
G. G. Clement, G. E. Clothier, D. M. Cormack, R. S. Cormack,
Miss D. Crampton, H. H. Davis, Miss P. Farmer, Mrs. H. Fox,
C. H. Fry, D. R. Hamblett, R. G. Hamilton, Mr. G.iG,, Harulll
C. Hockey, H. G. Hockey, W. A. Holmes, B. King, H. R. H. Lance,
A. C. Leach, H. W. Neal, P. J. M. Nethercott, Mrs. B. C. Palmer,
Miss E. M. Palmer, R. Pitman, R. H. Poulding, J. A. Pryce, W. L.
Roseveare, J. H. Savory, Peter Scott, T. B. Silcocks, Dr. D. Munro
Smith, J. Vallis, Miss C. A. L. Wareham, N. Webb, R. F. Wills and
M. A. Wright. Non-member contributors are A. R. Angell, J.
Blathwayt, G. L. Boyle, K. B. S. Brown, A. G. Dixon, T. Hamlett,
S. T. Johnstone, R. E. Jones, J. A. McGeoch, Prof. M. F. M.
Meiklejohn, T. D. H. Merrie, Miss E. D. Overend, E. G. Richards,
C. J. H. Rogers, H. S. Semple, C. M. Swaine, 8S. Turner, J. A. F.
Wilkins and P. Wycherley. Observations are followed by the
appropriate initials throughout. Initials D.B.P.S. denote records
from Report of the Dursley and District Bird-Watching and Preservation
Society.
The area covered, is that part of Gloucestershire (G.) lying east
of the Severn and south of a line from the New Grounds to the
county boundary at Tetbury, and Somerset (S.) north of the R.
Axe and a line from Wells to the county boundary near Frome.
BRISTOL BIRD REPORT lll
For the purpose of this Report the area extends westward into the
Channel and Estuary to include the promontory of Brean Down,
and the islands of Steep Holm and the Denny (cf. Sketch Map,
Pyoc. B.N.S.,-1947, Pp. 225).
BLACK-THROATED DIVER Gavia arcticus
S. One viewed at only a few yards range close to water’s edge,
Cheddar res., Feb. 6 by B.K., who has forwarded a detailed
description.
RED-THROATED DIvER’ Gavia stellatus
S. Single bird, Blagdon res., several dates, first half of Feb., was
simally found dead (B.K.B., G.G.C., G.A.L.W., N.W.). One,
Mineddar res., Jan. 30 (P.J.C.,.B.K.) and two, Feb.2 (H.R.H.L.) ;
one still present, Feb. 6, 12, and one, probably the same, found dead
on roth (C.H.F.). One, Cheddar, Mar. 6, 9 (C.H.F., H.R.H.L.) ;
this, or another, found dead on goth (B.K.). Observers again
record that birds showed evidence of being oiled.
GREAT CRESTED GREBE_ Podiceps cristatus
Sa d@otal of 26, Cheddar res., Mar. 9, 13 (B.K., H.R.H.L.).
Three or more pairs bred, Blagdon res. (P.J.C.) and a pairreared
three young, Chew Magna res. (P.J.C., R.P.). Ten or twelve
pairs, Chew Valley res., late Apr.—early May (P.J.C., B.K.) ;
five nests noted, same reservoir, July 17, and 35 ads. and six or
seven young counted, Aug. 14 (R.H.P.).
BLACK-NECKED GREBE_ Podiceps nigricollis
S. ‘Two, sometimes three, Cheddar res, several dates, Jan. 1-14
(B.K., H.R.H.L., N.W.), but P.J.C. records none present on 23rd
or 30th. Two, same reservoir, various occasions, Feb. 6-25
fee-C., A.G.D., A.C.L.) and Nov. 14 (H.R.H.L.). Single birds,
Barrow Gurney resrs, Jan 23, Feb. 27, Mar. 29 (G.E.C., W.A.H.,
J-A.P.) and Chew Valley res., Aug. 14 (R.H.P.).
LirTLe GRrEBE Podiceps ruficollis
G. Pair with nest on small lake, Badminton Park, May 15
ORCEL.P.).
S. At least eight pairs with young, Blagdon res., Sept. 4 ;
breeding also reported from Chew Magna res.—3 pairs with small
young, Aug. 7 (P.J.C., R.P.), and Litton res.—pair with small
young, Sept. 4 (B.K.).
LEAcH’s PETREL Oceanodroma leucorrhoa
G. One, evidently a storm driven bird, in flight over the saltings,
New Grounds, Sept. 18 (H.J.B.).
Manx SHEARWATER = Procellaria puffinus
_ §. One recovered on outskirts of Bath, early Oct ; bird sent to
Mr. E. Smith of Combe Down, who fed it on small fish and reports
112 BRISTOL BIRD REPORT
that it was still alive at the close of the year (B.K.). For previous
instance of a Manx Shearwater found in the same area and being
successfully maintained in captivity see Proc. B.N.S., 1953, p. 389 ;
Rep. Som. Birds, 1953, p. 7-
GannET Sula bassana
S. Dead bird, Brean Down, Feb. 27 (C.H.F.). A juvenile,
probably storm driven, found alive in a garden, Weston-super-Mare,
Sept. 5, (ea Et 1).
CorMORANT Phalacrocorax carbo
S. Up to eight, Cheddar res., various dates, Jan._Mar., with
max. number of fifteen, Jan. 23, Feb. 6: (P))-G)) Gani kas
Five, Chew Valley res., Sept. 25 (B.K.) and four, Nov. 13 (A.C.L.).
Single birds, or parties of up to five, Weston-super-Mare and Brean
Down areas, various occasions, June—Nov. (R.A.). Twenty-three
occupied nests, Steep Holm, Mar. 19 (D.M.C., R.H.P. eéé al.);
evidence of roosting, same place, when small parties seen arriving
on cliffs in afternoons of Oct. 15, Nov. 13 (R.H.P.).
SHAG Phalacrocorax aristotelis
S. Ajuvenile ringed on Lundy, July 8, recovered alive, Cheddar
res. Aug. 31 (H.R.H.L.) ; another, also juv., ringed Lundy, June
30, found dead, Chew Valley res., Oct. 3 (R.H.P.).
HERon Ardea cinerea
S. Brockley Combe : 31 occupied nests (15 in ash trees and 16
in oaks), Apr. 23 (B.K., N.W.). Uphill Grange: 20 occupied
nests in 17 trees (ash, oak, birch, poplar, chestnut and fir again
being used), May 9 (W.L.R.). ‘Two occupied nests (in white
poplar), Orchardleigh Park, nr. Frome, Apr. 21 (E.D.O.). No
conclusive report of breeding, Warleigh Wood, nr. Bath (C.J.H.R.).
Birds numbering from 20 to 35 or more, Chew Valley res., various
dates, July ro—Aug. 7, but only 12 or so a week later (evidence that
many were juveniles) (P.J.C., R.H.P.). Ten, Blagdon res., July
10, and sixteen on 14th (P.J.C.).
LitTLe Ecrer EL ¢gretia garzetta
G. One, apparently adult, visited the New Grounds on or about
Apr. 6, and remained, usually at water courses between the decoy |
and the saltings, until Apr. 13. It reappeared on 19th but was
not seen afterwards. First authentic record for Bristol area and
for county of Gloucestershire (cf. Brit. Birds, XLVIII, p. 320).
BITTERN Botaurus stellaris
S. One, disturbed from reed-bed, Blagdon, Feb. 27, crossed
reservoir and alighted in conifer plantation, where it was later found
in ‘‘ freezing ’’ attitude on dead branch of pine tree (P.J.C.) ; this,
or another, watched at close quarters taking fish, same reservoir,
Mar. 3 (B.K.).
BRISTOL BIRD REPORT 113
Maziarp- Anas platyrhynchos
G. Highest total on Estuary, New Grounds, early in year—510,
Jan. 23 ; count of 240 (nearly all males), same place, June 1, while
of 80 or more on river, July 13, some were flightless owing to moult ;
with max. total of 580, Sept. 20, autumn numbers for same area
were little more than half of those returned for recent years
S. Coastal counts include c. 150, Axe Estuary, Jan. 29 (T.B.S.) ;
109, Sand Point, Nov. 29 (R.A.) ; and 199 off Brean Down, Dec. 3
(M.A.W.). Reservoir totals of 112, Cheddar, Jan. 23 (B.K.) and
105, Dec. 11 (J.A. McG.) ; 80, Barrow Gurney, Feb. 27 (P.J.C.) ;
241, Blagdon, Feb. 27, and 561, Aug. 7 (P.J.C.)—increasing to.
1,000, Sept. 18, 25 (B.K.B., B.K.) but decreasing to 540, Oct.
30 (B.K.) ; 600, Chew Valley, Sept. 25 (B.K.) and 980, Oct. 16
(G.C.B., S.1.B.). Forty on lake, Orchardleigh, Aug. 21 (E.D.O.).
TEAL Anas crecca
G. Max. counts, New Grounds: 380, Jan. 23, and c. 200,
Mec. 26 (H.J.B.).
S. Max. coastal counts : c. 300, Brean Down, Jan. 29 (T.B.S.)
Sree. ec. 18 (P.J.C., J.V.) ; ¢. 150, Yeo Estuary, Jan. 23
fe-.o-).and 114, Dec. 31 (W.L.R.). Highest reservoir totals :
goo, Barrow Gurney, Jan. 9 (P.J.C.) ; 330, Cheddar, Jan. 23
(P.J.C., B.K.) ; 250, Chew Valley, Sept. 8 (H.H.D.)—increasing
to 550, Oct. 16 (G.C.B., S.1.B.) ; and 1,050, Blagdon, Nov. 20,
mec, 19 (P.J.C., B.K., R.P.).
GARGANEY Anas querquedula
G. New Grounds (W.T. enclosures or decoy ): single male,
Apr. 7-14; a pair on 14th ; and one, various dates, Aug. (H.J.B.,
B.K.).
S. Pair, Blagdon res., Apr. 21 (G.C.B., S.I.B.) ; two in flight
and on water with A.crecca, Aug. 1, 14 (P.J.C.). Pair, Chew Valley
pr. 17, 18, and single males, June 5, 18 (G.L.B., B.K.) ;
successful breeding, same place, where female with brood of eleven
seen, June 18 (B.K.)—first breeding record since 1949 (cf. Proc.
B.N.S., 1949, p-33)-
GADWALL_ Anas strepera
G. Up to 32, New Grounds, Jan.—Feb. and up to 18, various
dates, late Aug. to mid-Dec.; some probably hand reared birds
_ gone feral, or descendants of hand reared birds (H.J.B.).
S. Pair, Blagdon res., Jan. 9, 10 (B.K.B., B.K.), and at same
_ place : two pairs, Feb. 10 (B.K.B.), Mar. 13 (C.H.F.); three, Feb.
13 (P.J.C.) and three (male and 2 females), Dec. 31 (A.R.A.).
| Pair, Chew Valley res., Oct. 23 (G.L.B.). Male, Cheddar res.,
_ Dec. 23 (P.J.C.) and three females on 24th (J.A.McG.).
* Cf. Proc. B.N.S., 1954, p. 28 for similarly high inland count.
114 BRISTOL BIRD REPORT
WIGEON Anas penelope
G. Totals of 600 on Estuary, New Grounds, Feb. 20, and 750
on 23rd, but very few, mid-Mar. ; ten, same place, Sept. 20o—
subsequently increasing to 400, Nov. 13 ; 1,450, Dec. 20, and 2,000
on 22nd (H.J.B.).
S. Max. reservoir counts of 740, Chew Valley, Mar. 3 (B.K.)
and 1,120 (exceptional for time of year) on 20th; 800, Blagdon,
Nov. 6 (B.K.). At Cheddar res., where the bird is seldom numerous
now, highest totals reported were 35, Jan. 30 (P.J.C., B.K.) and
32, Dec. 18 (J.A.McG.)-
PInTAIL Anas acuta
G. Counts of 110, New Grounds, Jan. 23, and 65, Feb. 23 ;
thirty, same place, Nov. 13, and c. 80, Dec. 13 (H.J.B.).
S. Forty, Cheddar res., Jan. 30 (B.K.). Up to 12, Blagdon,
Cheddar and Chew Valley resrs., various dates, Jan.—Mar. and
Nov. (G.C.B., A.C.L., R.P. e¢ al.).
SHOVELER Spatula clypeata
G. New Grounds: eight to 30 or more, various dates, Jan.—Feb.
and mid—Aug. to mid—Dec. (H.J.B.).
S. Reservoir records of eleven, Cheddar, Jan. 23 (P.J.G., B.K.)
and 34, Dec. 23 (P.J.C.) ; 40, Blagdon, Mar. 3, and 70, Nov. 6
(B.K.) ; 150, Chew Valley, Mar. 20 (G.C.B.) and at least 60,
Apr. 8 (P.J.C.). Nest with eggs, Chew Valley, May 1, and female
with brood of ten, same place, July 6 (B.K.). |
Scaue Aythya marila
S. Reservoir records : female, Blagdon, Jan. 2 (B.K.B.) ; two
males, same place, Feb. 13 (P.J.C.) and a female, Oct. 30—-Nov. 6
(B.K.) ; and up to four, Cheddar, Dec. 19-21 (H.H.D., B.K.,
E.M.P.). Two, Axe Estuary, Oct. 29 (W.L.R.).
RING-NECKED Duck Aythya collaris
G. An ad. male in full plumage visited a pond in the W.T. |
enclosures, New Grounds, Slimbridge, on Mar. 12, 13, and on both
dates was identified at very close range ; seen in flight near same |
spot on 14th but not reported subsequently. First authentic record
for Europe (cf. also Brit. Birds, XLVIII, p. 377).
TuFTED Duck Aythya fuligula |
G. Single wild bird in W.T. enclosures, New Grounds, through- |
out the year ; five on decoy pool, same place, Nov. 17 (H.J.B.). |
S. Exceptional counts, Blagdon, of 429, Feb. 27 (P.J.C.) ; 760 |
(highest total yet for any Som. res., and probably due to birds being |
frozen out elsewhere), Mar. 3 (B.K.) ; and 312, Nov. 15 (H.R.H.L.). |
Other reservoir counts of 50, Barrow Gurney, Feb. 27 (P.J.C.) and
250, Cheddar, Dec. 21 (H.H.D.). 57 on lake, Orchardleigh, Mar. |
BRISTOL BIRD REPORT 115
20 (E.D.O.). At least seven pairs bred successfully, Chew Valley
mee. ).c., b-K., R.H.P.).
PocHARD Aythya ferina
_G. Male on decoy pool, New Grounds, Nov. 17 ; up to four in
W.T. enclosures, same place, various dates, early Oct. to end of
year (H.J.B., B.K.).
S. Max. reservoir counts of 307, Blagdon, Jan. 5, and 751,
Nov. 20 (P.J.C.,R.P.) ; 300, Cheddar, Jan. 9 (B.K.) ; 790, Chew
Valley, Mar. 13 (G.C.B., S.I.B.) ; and 920, same place, Dec. 5
(B.K.).
Ferrucinous Duck Aythya nyroca
S. One, Chew Valley res., Jan. 2; bird, first seen preening
on reservoir bank and afterwards on water in close company with
Tufted Duck and Pochard, was identified by B.K. and E.G.R.,
who have supplied satisfactory details (cf. also Rep. Som. Birds,
_ 1955.).
GOLDENEYE Bucephala clangula
S. Max. count of 21, Blagdon res., Jan. 23 (B.K.B.); 14, same
place, Feb. 13 and Mar. 3 (B.K.), and seven (5 males), Nov. 20
Bem. R-P.): Kleven, Cheddar res., Jan. 23-26 (P.J.C., B.K.)
and 14, Dec. 26 (W.A.H., B.K.). Twenty, Chew Valley res., Mar. 13
mei.) and 13, Apr. 11 (G.C.B., S.I.B.).
Common ScoTerR Melanitia nigra
S. Female off Brean Down, Nov. 6 ; bird caught and found to
be heavily oiled (P.J.C., M.A.W.) ; two females in flight, same
@iee, Dec. 18 (J.A.P., R.H.P., J.V.).
RED-BREASTED MERGANSER Mergus serrator
S. A female or immature, Cheddar, Dec. 26, 28 ; second record
only for the reservoir (B.K.).
GoosANDER Mergus merganser
S. One, Chew Valley res., Jan. 9 (G.C.B.) and one, Blagdon
res., several occasions, Jan. and Dec. (B.K.B., C.H.F., W.A.H.
ét al.). Single male on lake, Orchardleigh, Jan. 4, 7 (E.D.O.,
P.W.). Up to five, Cheddar res., frequently, late Jan.-late Mar.
(various observers) and single bird twice in Dec. (H.H.D., J.A.
McG.). :
SmMew Mergus albellus
G. Single ‘“ redhead ’’ on decoy pool, New Grounds, Nov. 20,
a2 (5.1 .].).
S. Frequently noted, Blagdon and Chew Valley resrs., early
Jan. to mid-Mar. (various observers) ; max. of seven, Chew Valley,
Mar. 3 (B.K.). Seen once only, Barrow Gurney—single bird,
D
116 BRISTOL BIRD REPORT
Jan. 12 (A.C.L.), while the only Cheddar record is of two, Dec.
29 (W.L.R.).
SHELDUCK Tadorna tadorna
G. Highest count on Estuary, New Grounds, early in year—56,
. Jan. 29 ; total of 65 (only 5 ads.), same place, Aug. 21, and similar
number, Sept. 18, Dec. 11 (H.J.B.).
S. Max. coastal returns (Oct.—-Dec.) Sand Bay, Weston Bay
and Brean Down areas: 396, Oct. 2; 491, Nov. 20; 390, Nov. 27;
and 399, Dec. 3 (R.A., T.B.S., M.A.W. e al.). Up to five, Chew
Valley res., Jan., Mar. and May (various observers) ; breeding
proved for first time at N. Som. resrs. when adult with single
duckling seen, Chew Valley, July 17, 24 (B.K., R.H.P.). One,
Barrow Gurney resrs., Mar. 20 (J.A.P.) and six, Blagdon res.,
Sept. 16 (B:K.), |
GREYLAG GOOsE Anser anser
G. Single ad., New Grounds, Feb. 8-Mar. 28 (H.J.B.).
WHITE-FRONTED GoosE Anser albifrons
G. Party of 14 overhead, Sea Mills, Jan. 14 (A.C.L.). Marked
increase at New Grounds from relatively small number of 1,000
at close of previous year to counts of well over 3,000 by early Feb. ;
peak total of ¢c. 3,900 on 11th. More than 2,000 still present, same
place, Mar. 13, but sharp decrease to 500 on 15th and fifteen on
22nd ; party of three stayed till Mar. 28. A single bird at New
Grounds, Sept. 27, was first autumn arrival; max. monthly counts
thereafter : 297, Oct. 31 ; 700, Nov. 26; 1,410) Deewana tty ae
et al.).
S. The following noted overhead : 65, Frome, Feb. 2 (E.D.O.) ;
eleven, Cheddar, Mar. 12 (R.E.J.) ; and 50 flying N.N.E., Weston-
super-Mare on 15th (R.A.).
LessER WHITE-FRONTED GOOsE: Anser erythropus
G. Single ad. seen with common White-fronts, New Grounds, on
at least four occasions, Jan. 13 to Mar. 13 (H.J.B., P.S. e¢al.).
PINK-FOOTED GoosE Anser brachyrhynchus
G. New Grounds : single bird, Jan. 28, and Feb. 24 to Mar. 2 ;
first autumn arrivals unusually early—party of three, Sept. 14,
with increase to 72 by 28th; over 80, Oct.—Nov., with max. of
94, Nov. 25 ; some decrease by early Dec. but in contrast to most
years, at least 60 still present on 31st (H.J.B.). Party of eight,
flying up-river, Sharpness, Nov. 6 (R.H.P.).
BARNACLE Goose Branta leucopsis
G. One, first noted in previous Dec., remained at New Grounds.
till Mar. 13 ; a Barnacle x White-front hybrid, very similar to one
BRISTOL BIRD REPORT 117
present in winter 1953-54, and perhaps the same bird, was seen,
various dates, early Jan. to mid—Mar. (H.J.B., P.S.).
Mute Swan Cygnus olor
G. and §. B.T.O. Census: total of 68 occupied nests reported
by regional organizers—E.M.P., J.A.P. 70 birds on R. Avon at
Old Bridge, Bath, Mar. 30, June 15 (B.K.). Max. counts, N.
Somerset reservoirs: 75, Blagdon, Nov. 6 (B.K.) and 60-72,
Cheddar, several occasions, Dec. (H.H.D., H.R.H.L. et al.).
WHOOoPER Swan’) Cygnus cygnus
G. One on Estuary, New Grounds, Nov. 22, 23 (H.J.B.).
BEwIck’s SwAN Cygnus bewicki
S. Unusually large party of 25 (15 immatures), Cheddar res.,
Mar. 13 (B.K.).
Buzzarv_ Buteo buteo
G. Single birds, Little Stoke, Mar. 11, and at frequent intervals,
Oct.-Nov. (H.H.D.); Littleton-on-Severn, May 8 (R.H.P.) ;
Badminton, Julv.1 (G.G.H.); and Wick, Aug. 25, Nov. 20(D.RH.).
Single birds at intervals: Berkeley, Dursley and Wotton-
under-Edge districts ; one mobbed and severely injured by Rooks,
Tortworth, Mar. 10 ; three, Stinchcombe, Sept. 25 (D.B.P.S.).
S. Again reported from many widely separated localities but.
no record of successful breeding. ‘Two nests located in 1954 census
area and one pair suspected breeding in an adjoining area of 11 sq.
kms, but no evidence that young were reared (various observers).
SPARROWHAWK Accipiter nisus
S. Male seen chasing small party of Dunlin low over the water,
Chew Valley res, Apr. 17, by G.B. and B.K., who record that the
hawk struck down one of the waders into the water and then
picked it off the surface and departed. Female, Steep Holm,
Aug. 26, 27 (H.W.N.) and a male, Nov. 13, 14 (R.H.P.).
Monracu’s Harrier Circus pygargus
S. ‘Two, male and female, quartering ground over young spruce
in afforested area, nr. Rowberrow, Mendip, May 10; birds seen
by H.F., who has supplied satisfactory details. First definite record
for present century ( cf. Proc. B.N.S., 1947, p. 245.)-
-Hossy Falco subbuteo
|
|
|
|
SE EeEeaeEe
G. Single birds overhead, Little Stoke, four occasions, July—
Sept. (H.H.D.).
S. One harrying Swallows and Martins, Bishop Sutton, Sept. 8
or... B.K.).
PEREGRINE falco peregrinus
S. The only inland record is of one, Cheddar Gorge, Jan. 30
(R.A.). Single birds reported from coastal. areas, Brean Down to
118 BRISTOL BIRD REPORT
Portishead, various occasions, Jan.-Apr. and Aug.—Dec. (W.L.R.,
T.B.S. et al.). Two, Brean Down, Nov. 13 (C.H., H.G.H.). Steep
Holm records of one, Mar. 19 (P.J.C.) ; May 31 (B.K.) ; Aug. 26
(H.W.N.) ; and two, several dates, Oct.-Nov. (R.H.P.).
Meru Falco columbarius
S. One, a small dark falcon, Sand Point, Oct. 15 (R.A.).
KeEsTREL Falco tinnunculus
S. Single bird, Steep Holm, Oct. 16 (R.H.P.).
RED-LEGGED ParRTRIDGE Alectoris rufa
S. Three on high ground above Saltford, July 13 (T.H.), 25
(B.K.).
WatTER Ratt Rallus aquaticus
G. Single bird, in hard weather, Duchess’ Pond, Stoke Park,
Stapleton, Feb. 20-27 (J.A.P.).
CORNORAKE = Crex crex )
' G. One caught (and later released) in market garden, Patchway,
on early date of Apr. 11 (cf. also below) (H.H.D.).
S. . One flushed from long grass, nr. Priddy, Mendip, Apr. 11
(J-A.F.W.). Bird calling, Saltford, May 12 (B.K.) and one seen,
Long Ashton on roth (G.E.C.). Remains found in tide wrack
on river bank nr. Pill, May 23 (R.H.P.).
Mooruen_ Gallinula chloropus
G. Fifty-nine, including a concentration of about 35, at two
marshy ponds bordering the canal, Sharpness—an abnormally
high number for a relatively small site (D.M.C., R.H.P.).
Coor Fulica atra
S. Cheddar res: from 1,000, late Jan. to 1,700, mid.—Mar.,
and from 240, late Oct. to 1,400, mid.—Dec. (various observers).
Max. count, Chew Valley res., 1,500, Mar. 3 (B.K.), where at
least go breeding pairs noted, May-June, and ads. and young
estimated at 400, July 17 (B.K., R.H.P.). Well over 2,000,
Blagdon res., several dates, Oct.-Dec. (B.K.). Highest total,
Barrow Gurney, 265, Nov. 20 (G.E.C.). 100, Orchardleigh, Oct.
16 (E.D.O.).
OYSTERCATCHER Haematopus ostralegus |
G. Two, New Passage, Feb. 13, Apr. 10, and six, Aust Cliff,
Oct..2 (R-EEP)). |
S. More numerous than in 1954. Counts, Weston Bay, of 145
Sept. 26 (T.B.S.) ; 150, Oct. 6; and 163, Novile;(heas)) am
Sand Bay, Dec. 4 (T.B.S.).
BRISTOL BIRD REPORT 119
RiNnGED PLOVER Charadrius hiaticula
G. 200, Severn Beach, May 8, and 65, New Passage, same date
ok.H1.P.).
S. Inland records of 28, Chew Valley res., Aug. 30, and 37,
Sept. 2 (B.K.).
Grey Plover Charadrius squatarola
S. Reported only from Sand Bay, where up to five seen, Jan.
to mid. Mar., and Oct. (R.A., W.L.R., T.B.S.).
GOLDEN PLOVER Charadrius apricaria
G. Fifty-seven, Aust, Jan. 1, and eighteen, Feb. 13 (R.H.P.).
S. Records of small numbers, various localities, Jan.-Mar., and
Oct.—Dec. ; max. totals of 300, Burnett, Dec. 2 (T.H.) and c¢. 300,
Queen Charlton on 31st (G.C.B., S.I.B.).
TURNSTONE Arenaria interpres
G. Twelve, Sheperdine, Jan. 17, and five, May 29 (D.B.P.S.).
At least 300, New Passage, Apr. 10, and 45, May 8 (R.H.P.). Two
on Estuary, New Grounds, Aug. 14 (H.J.B.).
S. Nine, Clevedon, Sept. 7 (P.F.)—the only noteworthy coastal
record. Party of eight (large number for inland habitat), Chew
Valley res., May 14 (B.K.) ; one, same place, Aug. 20 (B.K.B.).
CoMMON SNIPE Capella gallinago
S. Four settled in Spartina grass, Sand Bay, Feb. 12 ; two, same
Blace, Feb. 26, Oct. 23 (R.A.). 150 or more, Chew Valley ress
Bept. 8 (H.H.D.).
Jack SnipE Lymnocryptes minimus
G. Two nr. Wotton-under-Edge, Feb. 25 (D.B.P.S.). One,
New Grounds, Aug. 1, 2 (H.J.B.).
S. Single birds, Chew Valley res., Feb. 6 (B.K.) and Kenn
Moor, Apr. 16 (R.A.).
CurLEw WNumenius arquata
G. 100, Oldbury-on-Severn, Apr. 10 (R.H.P.).
BLACK-TAILED Gopwir Limosa limosa
G. New Grounds records include : 15 on Estuary, July 13, and
ea, Aug. 19 (H.J.B.).
S. Single bird, Chew Valley res., May 5 (G.L.B.) ; six, same
place, May 30 (B.K.) and Aug. 28 (G.L.B., P.J.C.).
BaR-TAILED Gopwit Limosa lapponica
G. One on Estuary, New Grounds, Aug. 3, and two on aist
(H.J.B.). Two, Aust Oct. 25 (J.A-P.).
S. ae Weston Bay, Jan. 15, Sept. 26 (T.B.S.) ; 43, same place,
Mar. 209. (B.CP., E.M.P.). Two, Sand Bay, Sept. 17, (Nee
One inland, Chew Valley res., Sept. 19 (G.G.B., S.1.B:).
——————————————
120 BRISTOL BIRD REPORT
GREEN SANDPIPER Tringa ochropus
G. Two, New Grounds, Apr. 19 (B.K.), and one, Aug. 1-11
S. Two, Litton res., Jan. 23 (B.K.). One or two, Chew Valley
res., Jan. g-May 8 (G.C.B., D.M.C. e¢ al.). Unusually numerous
at reservoirs on autumn passage : up to 12, Chew Valley, July 17—
Aug. 23 (B.K.B., R.H.P.), with max. of at least 22, Aug. 28 (P.J.C.,
B.K., R.H.P.) ; 21, same place, Sept. 7 (B.K.B.) and up to nine,
Sept. 8-Nov. 19 (G.G.C., H.H.D. et al.). Single birds, Barrow
Gurney, Aug. 21 (G.E.C.), and Blagdon on 28th (B.K.B.). Six,
Litton, Sept. 4, 11, and one, Cheddar on 18th (BK), Ones
Chew Valley, Dec. 31 (W.A.H., T.D.H.M.) and two, Blagdon,
same date (A.R.A.).
Woop SANDPIPER Tringa glareola
G. One at small pool, New Grounds, Aug. 1-11 (H.J.B.).
S. Up to four, Chew Valley res., various occasions, Aug. 20-27
(B.KB. GEC. P.-C. Bag).
REDSHANK Tringa totanus
G. Thirty-eight, Oldbury-on-Severn, Apr. 10; one ringed as
nestling, same place, July 4, 1954, shot, Poole Harbour, Dorset,
72m. 8.S.E, Dec. 29, 1955 (R.H.P.). |
S. Six pairs at least, Chew Valley res., Apr. 24, and pair with |
two almost fully grown young, July 1 (B.K.). Max. coastal returns
of 300, Yeo Estuary, Nov. 12, and 275 Sand Bay on 2oth (T.B.S.).
115 in drained Marine Lake, Weston-super-Mare, Nov. 5
(H.R.H.L.).
SPOTTED REDSHANK Tringa erythropus !
G. One at small pond, Dyrham Park, Sept. 9-16 (J.B.) and |
23rd (D.M.C., R.S.C.). |
S. Reservoir records of one, Blagdon, Aug. 14 (P.J.C.) ; up to |
five, Chew Valley, late Aug.-late Sept. (B.K.B., G.G.C., H.H.D.
et al.); one, Cheddar, Sept. 18 (B.K.). Four, Sand Bay, Aug. 21
(R°A:).
GREENSHANK Tringa nebularia
G. One, New Grounds, various dates, early July-late Aug. ;
two, evidently wintering, same place, Dec. 15 (H.J.B.).
S. Frequent, Chew Valley res., July—late Oct., with max. |
numbers of twenty, Aug. 28, and ten, Sept. 4 (G.G.C., R.H.P.
et al.). Three, Blagdon res., Aug. 14 (P.J.C.) ; five, same placem}
on 28th (T.B.S.) and three, Sept. 22 (W.A.H., T.D.H.M.). Nine, |
Litton res, Sept. 10) (3 1. |
Knor Calidris canutus
G. Twenty-six, Purton, Apr. 11 (D.B.P.S.).
BRISTOL BIRD REPORT 121
S. Coastal reports of 15, Sand Bay, Feb. 26, and c. 180, Wood-
spring Bay, Sept. 3 (R.A.). Reservoir records of 12 (exceptional
number inland), Chew Valley, Sept. 2 (B.K.), and two, Blagdon,
Oct. 16 (B.K.B.).
PurRPLE SANDPIPER Calidris maritima
G. At least four, New Passage, Apr. 10, and single bird, Severn
Beach, May 8 (R.H.P.).
LittLe Stint Calidris minuta
S. ‘Two, Chew Valley res., May 25 (B.K.B.) ; one, same place,
mept. 2 (B.K.), 23(G.L.B.).
Dunn Calidris alpina
G. Spring records of 100, New Passage, and at least 500, Severn
Beach, May 8 (R.H.P.).
S. High coastal returns of 1,000, Weston Bay, Jan. 1 (R.A.)
and 2,000, Sand Bay on a2oth (T.B.S.). Chew Valley res. : 25,
May 18 (B.K.); 53, Aug. 28 (P.J.C.); and 40, Nov. 197—an exceptional
winter total inland (B.K.).
SANDERLING Crocethia alba
G. ‘Two, New Passage, and five, Severn Beach, May 8 (R.H.P.) ;
six, New Grounds on aist (D.B.P.S.).
S. One, Chew Valley res., May 5, and four on 18th (G.L.B.
B.K.). One inland, Combe Down, nr. Bath, May 17, was seen on
roof of building, twelve feet from the ground, and later on nearby
road (B.K., H.S.8.) (cf. Brit. Birds, XLVIII, p. 544).
Rurr Philomachus pugnax
G. One, New Grounds, Mar. 27 (M.F.M.M.).
S. Two, Chew Valley res., Apr. 17 (G.C.B., S.1.B.). Autumn
passage records, same place: one, July 17 (R.H.P.) ; up to eight,
various dates, Aug.—Sept.; and single bird, Oct. 9 (J.A.P., R.H.P.,
w al.). Five, Blagdon res., Aug. 28 (B.K.B., T.B.S.) and one,
Sept. 25, Dec. 5 (B.K.).
Avocet Recurvirostra avosetta
G. Single bird on Estuary, New Grounds, Dec. 16 (S.T.J.).
GREAT BLACK-BACKED GuLL Larus marinus
G. Single birds frequently, R. Avon, nr. Bedminster Bridge,
Bristol, Jan. and Nov.—Dec. (P.J.C., H.H.D.).
S. Eight (6 ads.), Cheddar, Dec. 23—highest number reported
from the reservoirs (P.J.C.). 43 occupied nests, Steep Holm, May
31 (R.S.C.). Again bred, probably three pairs, on the Denny
(2m. off Portishead but in county of Monmouthshire) ; two nests,
one with eggs, and two downy young on rocks, June 1 (H.H.D.,
mv IN., J.H.S.).
122 BRISTOL BIRD REPORT
LrEssER BLACK-BACKED GuLL Larus fuscus
G. An ad. of Scandinavian race, L. f. fuscus, or intermediate
form, with single ad. L. f graellsii, in W.T. enclosures, New Grounds,
Mar. 27 (H.H.D., M.F.M.M.).
S. The abnormal numbers roosting in previous Dec., Chew
Valley res., not maintained after Jan. 2, when 700 counted. Follow-
ing onset of wintry weather numbers dropped to 320 by Jan. 9,
with further decreases to 120, Feb. 6, and 50, Mar. 13 (P.J.C.,
B.K.) ; count of ¢.*250 was, however, made; Apnewem 2 j:C:)c
Autumn counts, same place, included : 50, Sept. 25 ; 552, Sept. 28 ;
120, Oct. 9g, and 200 on goth (B.K.). Colony of twelve or more
pairs occupied temporary island, Chew Valley, May-July ; breeding
established, May 14, when nest with two eggs seen by K.B.S.B.
and B.K. Further visits to island not possible but three broods of
partially fledged young noted by R.H.P. from reservoir perimeter,
July 17. Ad. ringed, Steep Holm, Apr. 6, 1954, found dead, Cheddar
Gorge, July 7, 1955 (P.J.C.).
HERRING GuLu Larus argentatus
S. Probably roosted throughout year, Chew Valley res.—counts
in late afternoons included : 500, Mar. 17 (most imms. ) ; 400,
Apr. 8; and 600, Sept. 28 (P.J.C., B.K.)\.> Up*to aecotat roost.
Steep Holm, Oct. 16, and 3,000-4,000, Nov. 12, when many ads.
on nest sites and one carrying nesting material (D.C., R.S.C.,
R.H.P.). First-year bird ringed, Steep Holm, Mar. 21, 1955,
recovered Portmadoc, Carns., 115m. N.W., Sept. 30, 1955 (P.J.C.) ;
fourth-year bird ringed, same place, Apr. 4, 1954, found dead nr.
Swansea, Glam., 47m. W.N.W., Nov. 11, 1955 (D.M.C.).
Guiaucous GuLL Larus hyperboreus
S. A fourth-year bird, Chew Valley res., Mar. 13 ; size noted as
larger than nearby Herring Gulls, and only evidence of immaturity
was dark tip to yellow bill and slight, brown mottling on wing
coverts (B.K.).
IcELAND GuLL Larus glaucoides
G. and S. Single first year bird, Barrow Gurney resrs., Jan. 9 ;
R. Avon, Bedminster Bridge, Bristol, Feb. 14, 15 (P.J.C.) ; and
with Herring Gulls at roost, Steep Holm, Mar. 20 (P.J.C., R.H.P.)
—possibly same individual throughout, but distinguished from light
coloured bird at Barrow Gurney in previous Dec. Another first-
year bird, Weston-super-Mare, Dec. 22 (H.R.H.L.,T.B.S.).
Common Guiu_ Larus canus
G. Exceptional concentration of immatures, Old Sodbury,
May 15, when ¢. 200, almost entirely first-year birds, seen on pasture
CREA. P.)s
BRISTOL BIRD REPORT 123
BLACK-HEADED GuLL Larus ridibundus
S. Roost counts include: 15,000, mouth of Avon, Jan.g (D.M.C.,
Sees. REP, M.A.W.) ; 4,275, Axe Estuary, Jan, 22 ( P.J.C.) 5
and 1,400, Chew Valley res., Oct. 30 (B.K.). Large numbers,
occasionally exceeding 1,000, feeding, Chew Valley, during dry
spell, July-Aug. ; sample counts showed consistently high percentage
of juveniles, varying between 20-40 per cent. (P.J.C., R.H.P.).
Thirteen ads. off Steep Holm, heading for Somerset coast, May 31
(B.K.).
Kittrwake Rissa tridactyla
G. Exhausted bird, found inland nr. Tortworth, Feb. 3, was
sent to Zoological Gardens, Clifton, where it recovered and was
later released (D.B.P.S.). Single ads., freshly dead, New Passage
and Oldbury-on-Severn, Feb. 13 (R.H.P.).
S. Probable remnants of “‘wreck,’’ previous Nov.—Dec, included
one immature, Cheddar res., Jan. 1,9 (B.K., H.R.H.L.) ; four dead,
Sand Bay, Jan. 2 (W.L.R.) ; and two, Weston-super-Mare on
16th (P.J.C.). After prolonged south-westerly gales, Feb. 1-5, up
to 20 or more, mostly dead, reported from coastal areas and reser-
voirs. One, Cheddar res., May 1, and one, dead, Chew Valley
res. on 14th (B.K.). One autumn record : a first-year bird over
landing beach, Steep Holm, Nov. 13 (R.H.P.).
Biack ‘TERN CAhlidonias niger
S. In contrast to exceptional passage of May, 1954, only one
spring record: single bird, Chew Valley res., May 29 (B.K.).
Moderate numbers at reservoirs on autumn passage, with extreme
dates Aug. 14 and Oct. 9. One, Barrow Gurney, Aug. 14 (P.J.C.)
and single birds, Blagdon, various dates, Sept. 7-Oct. 9 (G.C.B.,
G.G.C.), but max. returns of 34, Chew Valley, Aug. 22 (B.K.B.)
and six, Cheddar, Sept. 18 (B.K.).
Common TERN Sterna hirundo Arctic TERN Sterna macrura
S len, Blagdon res.. May 13 (B.K.).. Only other spring
records are from Chew Valley res.—highest count being seven,
May 22 (G.E.C.). Small party of up to eight, several in retarded
or first-year plumage, same place, June 18—July 3 (B.K.B., B.K.).
Return passage also small, with reservoir counts (Commons or
Artcics) of two, Blagdon, Aug. 7, and Barrow Gurney. Aug. 14
(P.J.C.); and four, Chew Valley on 28th (G.L.B.). One Arctic,
Blagdon, Sept. 11 (P.J.C.); one Common, Chew Valley, Sept. 18,
_and three, Oct. g (B.K.). Single bird, Weston-super-Mare
Pept. 21-(H.R.H.L.).
SANDWICH TERN Sterna sandvicensis
S. Single bird, Chew Valley res. on unusual date of June 20
(B.K.B.).
124 BRISTOL BIRD REPORT
LirtLe Auk Alle alle
S. One found alive, Locking, nr. Weston-super-Mare, Oct.
19 and later released on coast (H.R.H.L.). Another, swimming
close to Axbridge tower, Cheddar res., various dates, Dec. 18-28
(J.A.McG., B.K., e¢ al.).
WooppiIcEOon Columba palumbus
S. One, Steep Holm, Nov. 13 (R.H.P. e¢ al.)—first record for
the island since 1935.
BaRN Ow. Tyto alba
S. Frequent records from localities in low-lying moors, Weston-
Clevedon, and at Blagdon and Chew Valley resrs (various obser-
vers). Also reported, Charterhouse, Feb.6 (R.F.W.) ; Loxton,
Apr. 17 (R.P.) ; and Long Ashton, Oct.—Dec. (M.A.W.).
LitTLE OwL § Athene noctua
S. One, Steep Holm, Mar. 19, 21 (H.J.B., et al.), and another
found dead on goth (R.H.P.) ; one, same place, Nov. 13 (D.M.C.)
—first records for the island since 1938.
Swirt Apus apus
S. At least 1,000, Chew Valley res., June 29 when weather was
dull and cold. Equally large numbers have been noted at the
reservoirs during similar weather in previous years (B.K.).
Hoorpot Upupa epops
G. One, Shepherd’s Patch, Slimbridge, Aug. 25 (S. T. per
S. One shot in error for Jay, East Harptree, in April (per
G.L.B.).
LEssER SPOTTED WOODPECKER Dendrocopos minor
G. One in garden, St. George, Bristol, Apr. 7 (G.B.).
S. Single birds, Compton Bishop, Mar. 5 (P.J.M.N.) ; Cleeve
Woods, Apr. 21, 22; Combe Down, Bath, May 37 (2G poe
and Blagdon res., Oct. 30 (B.K.).
WoopiarRK Lullula arborea
G. Two, North Nibley, Apr. 11 ; single birds, same locality,
May 19, Dec. 8 (D.B.P.S.).
S. Frequently noted, Worlebury, Mar.—Apr. ; nest with three
young, May 12 (R.A.). Single birds heard, Brockley Combe, May
17 (A.E.B.) and nr. Compton Bishop, June 18 (P.J.M.N.).
House Martin Delichon urbica
S. One with Sand Martins, Chew Valley res., on early date of
Mar: 27 (B.K:. IN. W?).
BRISTOL BIRD REPORT 125
Sanp Martin’ Riparia riparia
S. Strong westerly movement, Blagdon res., Apr. 8; birds
evidently arriving from Chew Valley, where enormous numbers,
estimated at several thousands, were hawking over the water
(G.L.B.).
RAVEN Corvus corax
G. Two at old decoy, Purton, various occasions, Oct. 15 to end
of month (D.B.P.S.). Single birds, New Grounds, Oct. 2, Nov. 27
(B.K.).
S. Frequent records from Brean Down, Cheddar, Sand Point and
Steep Holm, but no evidence of successful breeding except from
Sand Point, where one young reared (R.A., H.R.H.L., T.B.S.,
et al.).
CARRION Crow Corvus corone
G. Count of 98, Avon mudbank, Sea Mills, July 7 (P.J.C.).
S. Counts of 130, Saltford sewage farm, Jan. 15; 105, Feb.
20 ; and 152, Nov. 26 (B.K.). Over 170 together, Nailsea Moor,
May 29 (P.J.C.).
HoopEep Crow Corvus cornix
G. Single birds nr. Dursley, early March (D.M.S.) and New
Grounds, Oct. 2 (D.B.P.S.).
Rook Corvus frugilegus
G. and §. The decrease, recorded in 1950, within the City and
County of Bristol has continued : total of rookeries reduced from
12 to 4 and nests from 134 to 92. Boundary changes have excluded
the Ham Green colony (53 nests), but included a colony of same
size in Ashton Park (various observers). Up to 14 nests on
electricity pylons, Uphill, Apr.-May (R.A., C.H., H.G.H.).
WitiLow Tir Parus atricapillus
G. Again reported from Stoke Gifford area where one seen
and heard in hedgerow, Feb. 23 (H.H.D.)—for previous records cf.
proc. B.N.S., 1947, p. 236 ; 1954, p. 43.
Diprer Cinclus cinclus
ee single ad., Little Avon River, nr. Alderley, Apr. 24
(D.M.C.). Pair, R.Boyd, Wick, throughout year and three juveniles
present in June (D.R.H.). One, Abbey Mill, Kingswood (nr.
Wotton-under-Edge), July 31 (D.B.P.S.).
S. Two nests, R.Chew (G.B.).
Misttet Turusn Turdus viscivorus
S. Local increase, Kewstoke, Jan.—-Feb. (T.B.S.). Seven,
arrived from N. and departed S.E., over Steep Holm, Nov. 14
(D.M.C., R.S.C.).
126 BRISTOL BIRD REPORT
FIELDFARE Turdus pilaris REpwinc Turdus musicus
G. Very strong N.E. movement, both species, Aust Cliff, Oct.
23, when approx. 10,200 birds recorded, 06.40-11.30 G.M.T.,
wind N.E., force 1-3 (D.M.C., P.J.C., R.S.C.).
S. Roost of c. 400 JT. musicus in rhododendrons, Cleeve, Jan. 2
(A;G.D.y,
Rinc OuzeLt Turdus torquatus
G. Single male, Stinchcombe Hill, Dursley, Apr. 2 (D.R.H.).
STONECHAT Saxicola torquata
S. Breeding reported from Brean Down; also Sand Point, where
pair reared two broods (R.A., W.L.R., T.B.S.).
ReEpDstTarT Phoenicurus phoenicurus
G. Adult male, Dodington on exceptionally early date of Mar.
30 (G.G.H.).
BuLack REDsTART Phoenicurus ochruros
G. Female or immature, Avonmouth Docks, Mar. 13 (R.H.P.).
S. Single females or immatures, Long Ashton Research Station,
Apr. 13 (G.E.C.) ; Brean Down, Nov. 20 (M.A.W.).
WHEATEAR Oenanthe oenanthe
S. Again reported from Wavering Down area (W.L.R. éé al.),
where four pairs considered to have bred (P.J.M.N.). Pair believed
to be breeding, Dolebury Warren, Churchill, May 21 (P.J.M.N.).
Woop WarBLER_ Phylloscopus sibilatrix
G. Single bird heard, Damery, Apr. 24 (A.E.B.). One only,
Dursley area, where six located in 1954 (D.R.H.).
S. Heard, Brockley Combe, May 17 (A.E.B.). Two, Budding’s
Wood, nr. Portbury, May 29 ; only five singing males, Leigh Woods,
May-—June—half usual number (P.J.C.). Only nine singing males
located in area of c. 106 sq. kms. of Mendip Hills (from Weston-
Blagdon and Cheddar-Churchill) : four, Cheddar Wood ; one,
Batts Combe ; one, Long Wood, Cheddar ; one, Rickford Combe ;
and two, Mendip Lodge Wood (various observers).
Prep FLYCATCHER Muscicapa hypoleuca
G. Male, Dodington, mid—Apr., 1954 (G.G.H.).
S. Male, Clevedon, Apr. 21 (P.F.).
MeEapow Pipir Anthus pratensis
G. Pair feeding newly fledged young nr. Sheperdine, June 5 ;
second pair one mile N., but breeding not confirmed (R.H.P.).
Rock Pierr Anthus spinoletta petrosus
S. Single birds inland (presumably this race), Cheddar res.,
Jan. 9, Mar. 27 (B.K.).
BRISTOL BIRD REPORT 127
Waite Wactait Motacilla alba alba
~G. Of 50 or more alba wagtails on arable land and shore-line,
Aust Cliff, Oct. 9, all those identified with certainty (8 birds) were
White Wagtails (C.M.S.).
S. White (and/or Pied) Wagtails moving S.E. over Steep
Holm, Oct. 16; 31 counted, 06.00-10.30 G.M.T. (R.H.P.).
Grey Wactait Motacilla cinerea
S) ©ne heard, Steep Holm, Oct..16 (R.H.P.) .and later seen
(D.C.)—second record for the island.
YELLOW WactaiL Motacilia flava
G. An ad. and two juveniles (presumably M.f. flavissima)
among large flock of alba wagtails, Aust Cliff, on late date of Oct.
9 (C.M.S.).
Hawrincw Coccothraustes coccothraustes
G. One, Penpole Point, Shirehampton, Jan. 23 (P.J.M.N.).
Up to four, Clifton and Durdham Downs, Feb. 12—Apr. 16, and
mewen, Feb. 19; at least-three, same place, Dec. 17 (P.J.M.N.,
S. One, Brockley Woods, Apr. 25 (A.G.D.). Four or five pairs,
Leigh Woods, Apr. 27 (P.J.C.).
GREENFINCH Chloris chloris
S. Up to 200 feeding on plateau, Steep Holm, Oct. 15 ; some
departed in late afternoon, and on 16th, in direction of Brean
Down ; 60-70, same place, Nov. 14 (R.H.P.).
GouprincH Carduelis carduelis
G. Late breeding records : nest with four newly hatched young,
in apple tree, Sneyd Park, Aug. 25 (A.C.L.); nest with large young,
also in apple tree, Filton, Aug. 12 (R.A.).
SISKIN Carduelis spinus
S. Party of 25 in Alders, Blagdon res., Feb. 12 (N.W.).
~-Cuarrincy § Fringilla coelebs
G. Of more than 3,700 migrating birds, Aust Cliff, Oct. 23,
the great majority were moving N.E.—see also under Fieldfare /
Redwing (D.M.C., P.J.C., R.S.C.).
BRAMBLING §Fringilla montifringilla
S. Sixty with other finches, Chew Valley res., Dec. 18 (B.K.).
Corn Buntinc Lmberiza calandra
| G. Eleven (5 singing males), Tormarton—Acton Turville area,
| May 29 (R.H.P.). Two, Leighterton, and two Kingscote, July 13;
single bird, Nympsfield, on 30th (D.B.P.S.).
S. ‘Two singing males nr. Saltford golf course, June 4 (B.K.).
| ‘Two nr. Yoxter, Mendip, July 31 (P.J.C.).
128 BRISTOL BIRD REPORT
Cirut Buntinc Emberiza cirlus
G. Single male, Penpole Point, Shirehampton, Oct. 30 (A.C.L.).
S. Ad. male, Hutton, June 28 (W.L.R.). Bred nr. Sand Point
—pair with juvenile, Aug. 6 (T.B.S.) ; one, same place, Nov. 12
(FER ELL. ): :
Snow Buntine Plectrophenax nivalis
G. Male on river-bank between New Grounds and Frampton-
on-Severn, Oct. 30 (D.B.P.S.).
129
PVOPTERAYNOTES
eS ih Reve 5 11.5.5
¢.°S. He Brarawayt
(Read in title to Council, May 3, 1956. Received Fan. 18, 1956.)
HE first three months of the year were exceptionally cold but
there was some fine and warm weather in April. May and
June were both much colder than usual apart from some warm
weather at Whitsun. By the end of June the season was still very
backward, but the months of July and August were quite exception-
ally fine and warm, and the weather continued to be dry until the
late Autumn.
On the whole the year was a good one so far as the Lepidoptera
were concerned and particularly for migrating species and was in
fact a complete contrast to the previous year. As will be seen below
the fine months of July and August provided some very interesting
records for the area.
_ I am most grateful to Messrs. C. L. Bell (C.L.B. ), G. H. W.
Crutwell (G.H.W.C.), Dr. G. Hartill (G.H.), R. Henderson (R.H.)
and K. H. Poole (K.H.P.) for sending me their records, some of
which are included below with a selection from my own records
((G.S.H.B.). All the Weston records are my own and all those
from Frome are by G. H. W. Cruttwell. I have therefore omitted
‘initials after records localized at these two places.
Euchloe cardamines Linn. (Orange-tip White). First seen April 14, Sodbury
| (G.H.) Scarcer than usual this year (C.L.B. and R.H.).
| Colias croceus Fourc. (edusa Fabr.) (Common Clouded-yellow). Fairly common
from early August to October, Weston Area. One in the middle of Bristol
in August (R.H.).
Euphydryas aurinia Rott. (Marsh Fritillary). Larvae, Wickwar, Feb. 26 (C.L.B.)
Aglais urticae Linn. (Small Tortoiseshell). Abundant everywhere in August
(C.S.H.B.). Recorded from March to December (C.L.B., G.H., R.H.).
- Vanessa ei Linn. (Red Admiral). Very common in the Autumn, Bristol
| (C.L.B
_ Pararge megera Linn. (Wall Brown). Last seen Nov. 1st, Bristol (K.H.P.)
_ Acherontia atropos (Linn. (Death’s-head Hawk). One freshly emerged female,
Wells, Oct. 12 (G.H.W.C.).
‘Herse convolouli Linn. (Convolvulus Hawk)—Seen at Hanham, Bristol, Sept.
7 and 8 (R.H.).
- Celerio galit Rott. (Bedstraw Hawk). Four specimens at light, Weston, July.
Celerio lineata Fabr. (livornica Esp.) (Striped Hawk). One at light, Weston, Aug. 21.
~ Macroglossum stellatarum Linn. (Humming-bird Hawk). Fairly common this year,
} particularly in August and September, Weston and Bristol (R.H. and C.L.B.).
130 Cc. S. H. BLATHWAYT
Cerura hermelina Goeze (bifida Hubn.) (Poplar Kitten). One at light, Weston,
July 6.
Tethea ocularis Linn. (octogesima Hubn.) (Figure of Eighty). One at light, Weston,
June 16.
Leucoma salicis Linn. (White Satin). One at light, Frome, July 10.
Lymantria monacha Linn. (Black-arched Tussock). At light, Weston, August.
Apatele alni Linn. (Alder Dagger). One at light, Frome, June 6.
Apatele rumicis Linn. (Dusky Knot-grass Dagger). Several melanic specimens at
light, Weston, August. ;
Cryphia muralis Forst. (par Hubn.) (Marbled Vert). Common at light, Weston,
July and August.
Agrotis trux Hubn. (lunigera Steph.) (Crescent Dart). Several at light, Weston,
July.
Actebia praecox Linn. (Partland Dart). One at light, Weston, Aug. 12.
Eurois occulta Linn. (Great Brocaded Rustic). One at light, Weston, Aug. 21.
Triphaena interjecta Hubn. (Least Yellow-underwing). Several at light, Weston,
July—August.
Polia nitens Haw. (advena auctt.) (Pale-shining Arches). Common at light, Frome,
June—July. |
Eumichtis lichenea Hubn. (Feathered Ranuncule). Common at light, Weston,
September.
Eremobia ochroleuca Esp. (Dusky Sallow Rustic). One at light, Weston, Aug. 12.
Procus literosa Haw. (Rosy Minor). Several at light, Weston, July—August.
Apamea anceps Hubn. (sordida Borkh.) (Large Nutmeg). One at light, Weston,
June 22.
Apamea scolopacina Esp. (Slender Brindle). One at light, Weston, Aug. 15.
Apamea ypsilon Borkh. ( fissipunta Haw.) (Dismal Brindle). Several bred in July
from larvae taken in May at Shapwick and Clevedon (C.S.H.B.).
Dasypolia templi Thunb. (Brindled Ochre). Four at light, Weston, October.
A ydraecia paludis Tutt (Saltern Ear). Several at light, Weston, July—August.
Hydraecia petasitis Doubl. (Butterbur Ear). Two specimens at light, Frome,
Aug. 24 and Sept. 29.
Oria musculosa Hubn. (Brighton Wainscot). One at light, Weston, July 24.
Cosmia affinis Linn. (Lesser-spotted Pinion). Several at light, Weston, August.
Cosmia diffinis Linn. (White-spotted Pinion). Four specimens at light, Frome,
Aug.—Sept. One at Weston Aug. 19.
Orthosia populeti Treits. (Lead-coloured Drab). Several at sallow, Clevedon, |
April (C.S.H.B.).
Atethmia xerampelina Hubn. (Centre-barred Sallow). Common at light, Weston,
Aug.—Sept.
Cirrhia gilvago Esp. (Dusky-lemon Sallow). One at light, Weston, Oct. 14.
Heliothis dipsacea Linn. (Marbled Clover). One at light, Frome, July 11.
Heliothis peltigera Schiff. (Dark Bordered Straw). Several at light, Weston, June —
and August.
Plusia festucae Linn. (Gold Spot). Several at light, Weston, Aug. and Sept.
Plusia gamma Linn. (Common Silver Y). Very abundant July to November, |
Weston. Several dwarf specimens taken. First seen April 23.
Lygephila pastinum Treits. (Plain Blackneck). One at light, Frome, July 11.
Brephos notha Hubn. (Light Orange-underwing). Common round Aspen, Cleve-—
don, April 11 (C.S.H.B.). S|
LEPIDOPTERA NOTES 131
Sterrha dilutaria Hubn. (holosericata Dup.) (Silky Wave). Three specimens on
Durdham Down, Bristol, July 11 (C.S.H.B.).
Lobophora halterata Hufn. (Large Seraphim). A few at light, Weston, May—June.
Philereme vetulata Schiff. (Brown Scallop). Several at light, Weston, July.
Philereme transversata Hufn. (rhamnata Schiff.) (Dark Scallop). Several at light,
Weston, July.
Thera variata Schiff. (Grey Spruce Carpet). Two at light, Weston, Oct. 23.
Colostygia salicata Hubn. (Striped Twin-spot Carpet). One at light, Weston,
Aug. 17.
Discoloxia blomert Curt. (Blomer’s Rivulet). Several at light, Weston, June and
July.
Perizoma bifaciata Haw. (unifasciata Haw.) (Barred Rivulet). A few at light,
Weston, July and August.
Perizoma taeniata Steph. (Barred Carpet). One at light, Weston, Aug. 6.
Nyctosia obstipata Fabr. (fluviata Hubn.) (Narrow-barred Carpet). Several at
light, Weston, June, Aug., Sept. and Oct.
Eupithecia succenturiata Linn. (Bordered Pug). One at light, Weston, July 12.
Eupithecia fraxinata Crewe (Ash Pug). Several at light, Weston, Aug. and Sept.
Abraxas syluata Scop. (Clouded Magpie). Common at light, Weston, June—July.
Semiothisa liturata Clerck (Tawny-barred Angle). Several melanic specimens
taken at light, Weston, July.
Selenia lunaria Schiff. (Lunar Thorn). One at light, Frome, May, 26.
Apocheima hispidaria Fabr. (Small Brindled-beauty). Two at light, Frome, March.
Margaronia unionalis Hubn. (Scarce Olive-tree Pearl), Several at light, Weston,
June, Aug. and Sept.
Keuzera pyrina Linn. (Wood Leopard). Several at light, Frome and Weston, July.
133
W. D. CONYBEARE,
HIS GEOLOGICAL CONTEMPORARIES AND
BRISTOL ASSOCIATIONS
By F. J. Nortu
(Read to the Geological Section, March 17, 1956. Received Sept. 14, 1956.).
ILLIAM DANIEL CONYBEARE was one of the band
of pioneers that, in the early days of last century, helped to
raise the study of rocks and fossils into the science of Geology.
Long search for unpublished material that might serve as the basis:
for a biography has produced no more than a few letters! written.
to or received from De la Beche, Buckland, and Murchison, and
these, together with his published works and references to him in
the biographies of his contemporaries have been used in the prepar-
ation of the present paper.
Conybeare came of a family with long ecclesiastical associations.
His grandfather (son of a vicar of Penhoe near Exeter) was Bishop
of Bath from 1750-5, his father was Rector of St. Botolph’s,
Bishopsgate, whilst his brother John Josias was Rector of Batheaston
and he himself, after holding a curacy at Chalcombe near Banbury
_and a lectureship at Brislington, became, in turn, Rector of Sully
in Glamorgan, Vicar of Axminster, and Dean of Llandaff.
Early Days. Our only source of information about W. D.
Conybeare’s early life is a fragmentary autobiography written in a
notebook in which he had preserved papers relating to one of his
ancestors, an Elizabethan Schoolmaster, John Conybeare.(z)? From
it we learn that he was not enamoured of autobiographies, which he
described as being “‘ absurd monuments of folly and affection, ”’
the work of people who :—
‘* Having angled all their life for fame,
And getting but a nibble at a time,
sit down at last to roll with a heavy bait of autobiography. ”’
As a boy his health was not always good and his schooling was
intermittent; this seems to have influenced his whole life, because,
as a man, his geological work was curiously discontinuous. Many
of those whose names became household words in the geological
world acknowledged that they took their early steps under his
1 Most of them are now in the National Museum of Wales, where also there
are copies of those still in private hands.
2 See list of references on page 146.
134 F. J. NORTH
guidance, but he never accepted a geological appointment, and
whilst he helped to lay the foundations of geology, he did not, like
Sedgwick at Cambridge and Buckland at Oxford or de la Beche as
founder of the Survey, take a continuously active part in building
the superstructure.
Referring to his Bishopsgate days he tells us that he was “‘buried
for nine months in the year in the old rectorial house. . . in a most
ghoulish atmosphere in the middle of a churchyard,’’ and he
speaks of the *‘ delight with which we hailed the return of our three
summer months of emancipation, when we emerged into the free
air and free fields of the country. ’’ ‘This was when the family went
to a small summer residence at Bexley in Kent. On these occasions
his brother, John Josias, seems to have been almost his only com-
panion. A favourite haunt was the group of Deneholes—ancient
chalk pits—near Bexley, where he made collections of fossils from
the sands exposed in shafts that gave access to the Chalk as well
as from the Chalk itself.
In 1805 Conybeare entered Christ Church, Oxford, where he
was able to live in comparative comfort due, as he wrote, to “‘ The
generosity of a worthy grandmother having at the time bequeathed
me an annual income of £500.’’ Of this, he recorded, “‘ I spent
£100 in the promotion of my library, another £100 I usually
devoted to travelling . . . and English topography was my
resource. 7
His topographical excursions took him into many parts of the
country, and owing to the influence of that remarkable work,
Stukeley’s JLtznerarium Curiosum, many of them had _ geological
significance. Stukeley’s Itinerary, he wrote, “‘first indicated to me
many of the points of our physical geography, and the general
course of our chalk hills . . . across our island. I also learnt how to
trace the line of sands underlying the chalk escarpment, and the
ranges of calcareous freestone from Bath, by the Cotteswolds. ”’
To supplement Stukeley Conybeare had a copy of Christopher
Packe’s ‘‘New Philosophico-Chorographical Chart of East Kent,”
published in 1743. This was a remarkable map for its time because
it depicted in considerable detail an area of about 32 square miles,
indicating physical features by means of feather-like shading and
the occurrence of chalk, stone, clay etc., by means of symbols.
It was the nearest approach to a geological map that had by then
appeared but it gave no information regarding the relationships
between the rocks that were indicated and would be better described
asasoilmap. With Packe’s map, he says, “‘ I was taught to find a
deeper interest in tracing out all the general relations in which the
individual features of hill and dale combined . . . And the distinct
organic remains of the several ranges became so familiar to me that
I was prepared at once to seize the general fact of the successive
W. D. CONYBEARE 135
distribution of those ancient genera when first laid down as an
admitted fact in the progress of geology. ”’
This was, of course, an allusion to the work of William Smith,
and since others also were beginning to observe in these matters it
shows how fortunate it was that Smith promulgated his views just
when he did—at a time when there was a group of competent
students ready to receive them.
Geological Excursions with William Buckland and Adam Sedgwick.
In 1811 Conybeare became a Fellow of the Geological Society,
then but four years old. In assessing the significance of that Fellow-
ship we must remember that the Society was not then the body
of experienced geologists that it is now. Its purpose, in the words of
the resolution that brought it into being, was that of “‘ making
geologists acquainted with one another, of stimulating their zeal,
and of ascertaining what is known in their science, and what yet
remains to be discovered.’ ‘That is still the purpose of the Society,
but joining it now is not the venture into an almost unknown field
that it was in Conybeare’s day. Conybeare’s first contribution to
geological literature was a paper to the Society in 1814, On the
origin of a remarkable class of Organic Impressions occurring in Nodules of
Flint.(2) He described certain curiously rounded bodies found
adhering to flat surfaces of flint and supposed them to represent the
casts of cavities formed by parasitic animals that bored into various
kinds of shells, the cavities having subsequently been filled with
silica and the remainder of the shell dissolved away. His sup-
positions have since been amply confirmed and the structures
recognized as the work of boring sponges Cliona. With the
accumulated knowledge of more than a century behind us we
sometimes fail to recognize the extraordinary perspicacity of those
who made deductions like these for the first time.
Buckland joined the Geological Society in 1813, and in the same
year he and Conybeare went geologizing in the north of Ireland.
In a paper presenting the results of this tour to the Geological
Society(3) the illustrations included anumber of panoramic sketches
showing the form and geological structure of the cliffs. This type
of section was the forerunner of the “‘ horizontal section ’’ drawn
to illustrate the geology of a district that is not dissected for long
distances by sea cliffs or other natural exposures.
Towards the end of 1814 Conybeare left Oxford for a living in
Suffolk, and Buckland wrote hoping that the ‘‘ parsonage might
prove to be founded on a bed of Elephants ’? no doubt because the
fossil bones of large mammalia were already beginning to intrigue
him. Conybeare does not, however, appear to have interested
himself in the local geology, but the publication (in 1822) of his
Outlines of Geology, to be mentioned later, shows that he kept himself
well informed concerning current research.
136 F. J. NORTH
In 1820 Adam Sedgwick came to Bath, where, as he recorded in
a letter to Murchison, he received much kindness ‘from Mr.
Conybeare, an Oxford Professor and a stone eater.’’ This was
W.D’s brother John Josias, sometime professor of Anglo-Saxon at
Oxford and then Rector of Batheaston. Interested in geology and
mineralogy he had been elected an Honorary Member of the
Geological Society at the time of its foundation in 1807. ‘“‘ After
leaving Bath’’ continued Sedgwick, ‘‘I went to the Brislington
house of Mr. William Conybeare, brother of the aforesaid Professor,
who accompanied me in my expedition for three weeks”? ...Ina
letter thanking Conybeare for his help Sedgwick said, ‘‘ I consider
the acquaintance I have formed with you among the most fortunate
and agreeable circumstances of my vacation. ”’
Sedgwick placed great store upon this and subsequent excursions he
made with Conybeare, and referred to him as “ one of my earliest
teachers in geology.’ Having regard to the part which Sedgwick
subsequently played in the development of geology this record of his
indebtedness to Conybeare is of more than passing interest. When
Sedgwick secured the Woodwardian Chair of Geology at Cambridge
in 1818 it was more by reason of his personal popularity than
for his knowledge of the subject, of which he is reported to have
said he then knew nothing at all. This was no doubt somewhat
hyperbolical, but there is nothing to show that he had more than an
amateur’s casual interest. Like Dr. Watson, who secured the Pro-
fessorship of Chemistry some fifty years before, he considered that
his first task on assuming office was to qualify for holding it. With
this object in view he travelled and thus came to meet Conybeare.
Also in 1820 Conybeare helped to found the Bristol Institution
Sor the Advancement of Science and Art. In this he was aided by H. T.
de la Beche, then about 24 years old and already beginning to take
an interest in geology. ‘They helped to further the development
of the Institution’s collections and assisted its Curator, J. S. Miller.
Miller was a native of Danzig and when he wrote a memoir on the
fossil crinoids which were abundant in the local Carboniferous
Limestone, Conybeare agreed to edit it, because, he said, “ since
the author’s native tongue is German the idiomatic inaccuracies
might have obscured the sense to an English reader. ”
Work on Fossil Reptiles. It was whilst living at Bristol that
Conybeare began to take an interest in the reptilian bones discovered
from time to time in the Liassic rocks of Somerset, and in the early
eighteen twenties we find him in frequent communication with
H. T. de la Beche on the subject. The latter’s home was then at
Lyme Regis—also the home of Mary Anning, daughter of a cabinet
maker who found it. profitable to collect and sell the local fossils.
Mr. Anning died when Mary was still quite a child, but she carried
on the business with great success until her death in 1847. Ata
W. D. CGONYBEARE 137
time when scientific interest in extinct reptiles was reaching a
crescendo, she played a very important part by reason of her patience
and skill as a collector. De la Beche had written about the Ichthy-
osaurs whilst Conybeare gave special attention to the long-necked
Plesiosaurs, which he described in a paper published jointly with
-de la Beche in 1821.(4)
The early work on Plesiosaurus was done on somewhat fragmentary
material, and-Conybeare made several conjectures concerning those
parts of the creatures not represented by fossils hitherto obtained,
but in March, 1824, there came news that Miss Anning had
discovered an entire skeleton. The story of this most opportune
event can best be told by means of extracts from letters from
Conybeare to de la Beche who was then in Jamaica, visiting the
sugar plantations that were his family inheritance.
“* Buckland, ’? wrote Conybeare, ‘‘ paid me a visit which much
hurried my actions, (and prevented my settling down to prepare
my sermon), but he brought important news—that the Annings
had discovered an entire Plesiosaurus, and that it had been offered
to the Duke of Buckingham for £200, and that he (Buckland) in
the course of a journey he was undertaking to Plymouth was
requested to call at Lyme and conclude the bargain, if the specimen
was really what it purported to be.
** I begged him to send me immediate intelligence, and three days
afterwards I received a very fair drawing by Miss Anning of the
most magnificent specimen which I shall shortly describe. It was
the evening also of the meeting of our Phil. Socy., (The Bristol
Institution) and you may imagine the fuss this occasioned—my
sermon though finished in scraps was then not half transcribed,
but one of my sisters-in-law who was staying with me kindly under-
took that task, and to the Society I went, delighted . . . to pay that
infant nursling of my own the Compt. of making this strange monster
first known to the public through its means. Such a communica-
tion could not fail to excite great interest ; some of the folk ran off
instantly (it was Friday evening), to the printing office, whither I
was obliged to follow to prevent some strange blunders falling under
the lash of my friend Cumberland. ”’
Even at that early date the public were eager for news of the
unusual, and the Press was apt to flounder when reporting scientific
discoveries—though it would be unfair to suggest that the Bristol
Press was unique in that respect !
Our generation is either so familiar with the slabs of reptilian
remains in museums or else quite unaware of their existence, that
most people have either Jost or never had the capacity to enjoy them
through wonderment, and we find it difficult to realize that there
‘was a time when they created as much press excitement as a flying
saucer or a living coelacanth might to-day.
138 F. J. NORTH
An important though somewhat exuberant memoir on the
Ichthyosaurs and Plesiosaurs by ‘Thomas Hawkins,(5) describes the
recovery of a specimen that had been noticed by Mary Anning in
the cliffs at Lyme. The account concludes:—“‘By next day’s noon,
twenty thousand loads ofearth had been removed and a few minutes:
more sufficed to demonstrate the wonderful remains I tell of. Who
can describe my triumph at the sight of the colossus. My eyes, the
first which beheld it : who shall ever see them lit up with the same
unmitigated enthusiasm again? And I verily believe that the
uncultivated bosoms of the working men were seized with the same
contagious feeling, for they and the surrounding spectators waved
their hats to a hurrah that made the hill and mossy dell echoing
ring ’’—and much more in the same strain.
A week after the Bristol meeting the anniversary meeting of the
Geological Society was to be held, and Buckland asked Conybeare
to go to London in order to receive the specimen. Being of con-
siderable size it had been despatched by sea but was delayed for ten
days or so, with the result that Conybeare had to be content to
exhibit the drawing he had received from Miss Anning at a meeting
of the Royal Society’s Club. Although disappointed at the non-
arrival of the specimen he was pleased to be the first to describe it
because some of his previous conclusions had been questioned.
To de la Beche he wrote :—
‘* T made my Beast roar almost as loud as Buckland’s Hyaenas, ’”
a reference to Kirkdale Cave which Buckland had claimed as
having once been a hyaenas’ den, and to his experiments with living
hyaenas to show that their feeding habits were similar to those of
the animals that had occupied the cave.
Continuing, he said, ‘‘ At last the important packet arrived, and
after wasting a day in vainly attempting to move it upstairs to the
room of meeting of the Geological Society [then in Somerset House]
by the aid of two men, we were constrained to unpack it in the
entrance passage : it is 10 feet in length and near 6 in breadth,
imbedded in shale easily removed with a penknife. ”’
Several paragraphs are devoted to a description of the skeleton
and to speculations upon the habits of the creature. “* This
creature must have been able to nibble with his head cheek by jowl
with his tail. I suppose he swam on the surface and fished with his
long neck, or lurked in shoal waters, hid amongst the weeds, pushing
his nose to the surface to breathe, and catching all the small fry
that came within reach of his long sweep ; but he must have kept
as much as possible out of the reach of the Ichthyosaurt, a very Junior
member of which with his long powerful jaws could have bit his
neck in two without ceremony. ”’
The specimen was described in detail in a paper communicated to
the Geological Society, (6) in which Conybeare summarized his views
W. D. CONYBEARE 139
concerning the habits and habitat of the creature—views that later
students have not found it necessary to alter in any important respect
except in regard to the flexibility of the neck which was much less
than Conybeare supposed.
In acknowledging Conybeare’s account of the fine new fossil de
la Beche wrote, “‘ Yours containing an account of the fine specimen
of Plesiosaurus I have just received . . . I must say that the brute’s
great length of neck very much surprised me ; however, I will not
prose about what I never saw, but proceed to give some further
account of the Geology of this part of the world . . . I had prepared
two or three boxes of insects, and other matters to be sent to the
Bristol Institution, but during my absence the ants had contrived to
destroy everything. I have sent to a friend to try and get a long
trunk of a Fern Tree for the Bristol Institution ; they are curious
and will remind you of some coal plants, and who can say that there
were not various species of fern trees in those days. ”’
From records which Dr. Wallis has kindly confirmed it appears
that the specimens of tree fern were duly received at the Institution,
also lizards, an alligator in spirit and some sea shells.
Just about this time (1824) his brother, John Josias, died and
conveying the news to de la Beche Conybeare said, “‘ this must, I
fear, be the abrupt termination of our correspondence, for having
lost the friend from whom I derived and with whom I shared all
those pursuits which formed the basis of that correspondence, I have
no heart to prosecute or think upon them just now... I feel therefore
that I have no right, having nothing cheerful to communicate,
to obtrude a correspondence of any other character . .. On the whole
then, it is not likely that I shall write again, but I shall ever hear of
or from you with satisfaction, and with still greater look forward
to the period when we shall again meet in England. ”’
For a time, Conybeare disappeared from the geological world
though he edited and published a volume of Anglo-Saxon poetry
which his brother was preparing at the time of his death.
A Text Book—Outlines of Geology. When Conybeare again
appeared in the geological world it was not fossil reptiles that
engaged his attention, but before we discuss the new phase of his
work we must go back to 1820 or thereabouts in order to consider
one of his publications that played an important part in promoting
the study of geology.
In 1818, William Phillips, a Quaker bookseller, who was inter-
ested in geology and was one of the founders of the Geological
Society, published a small volume entitled A Selection of Facts from
the best authorities, arranged so as to form an Outline of the Geology of
England and Wales. Conybeare wrote to the author giving him
additional information and pointing out errors that had crept into
the work. Later on, Phillips suggested that Conybeare should edit
140 F. J. NORTH
a new and larger work, and as a result, the Outlines of the Geology of
England and Wales, by W. D. Conybeare and W. Phillips, appeared
in 1822. Most of the work hadin fact been done by Conybeare and
Phillips was reluctant for his own name to appear as a joint author.
The “‘ Outlines ’’ was the first really systematic work upon the
Geology of England and Wales. It contained a brief and masterly
summary of the rise and progress of geology, an elaboration of
William Smith’s idea that sedimentary rocks could be classified by
means of the fossils which each successive layer contained, and
accounts of the principal groups of strata recognized in the country,
from the most recent down to the ‘‘ Carboniferous ’—a term which
Conybeare himself introduced.
As an indication of the esteem in which the Outlines of Geology
was held, we may take a tribute paid by Murchison, who, speaking
of the days when he first began to pay attention to the study of
rocks, said ‘“‘ Conybeare and Phillips Geology of England and Wales
then became my scientific bible, and I saw that a fine field was open
for any zealous and active searcher after truth in completing many
gaps which they had left to be filled up. ”’
In 1828 Sedgwick suggested that he and Conybeare should
collaborate in the preparation of the second part of the Outlines.
To this Conybeare readily agreed, but Sedgwick seems to have
found that the investigation of his Cambrian System demanded the
whole of his energies, and Conybeare had neither the time nor the
desire to take the initiative, for the volume was never issued : this
is a pity, for had the available knowledge of the older rocks been
recorded as methodically as that relating to the Secondary and
Tertiary rocks had been recorded in the Outlines the dispute that
led to the estrangement of Sedgwick and Murchison over the use
of the terms Cambrian and Silurian might never have developed..
Coalfield Studies. Whilst living at Brislington, Conybeare made
a close study of the neighbouring Coalfields, and in 1824 there
appeared (in the Transactions of the Geological Society) a joint
paper by himself and Buckland entitled Observations on the South
Western Coal District of England.(7) This described the coalfields of
Gloucester and Somerset in considerable detail and was for about
fifty years the only description available. ‘The map which accom-
panied it is evidence of careful and extensive fieldwork, and it was
in this paper that the term ‘ dolomitic conglomerate ’ for the basal
or littoral Trias was first used.
In 1822 Conybeare was appointed Rector of Sully near Cardiff,
a district that, geologically, has much in common with the country
around Bristol, but he did not finally settle there until two years
later. In October 1829 he was thrown from his gig and suffered
severe concussion. It was at first thought that he would not
recover, but in a few weeks Lyell, writing to John Fleming, was able
W. D. CONYBEARE 141
to report that though he was still insensible there were hopes of a
complete though slow recovery.
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HENRY E. FRIPP
GEORGE FORSTER BURDER >
JOHN BEDDOE
Professor WILLIAM RAMSAY .
Rev. THOMAS HINCKS
Professor C. LLOYD MORGAN
Professor ADOLPH LEIPNER
Professor SYDNEY YOUNG
S. H. SWAYNE
Professor C. LLOYD MORGAN.
ARTHUR B. PROWSE ..
Cc. K. RUDGE
JAMES W. WHITE
G. MUNRO SMITH
Miss I. M. ROPER
G. C. GRIFFITHS 7 oe
ERNEST (later Sir Ernest) H. COOK
H. WOMERSLEY
Professor O. V. DARBISHIRE .
JAMES RAFTER ..
A. L. FLEMMING
J. W. TUTCHER ..
F. S. WALLIS
Professor O. V. DARBISHIRE .
G. E. J. McMURTRIE
Professor MACGREGOR SKENE
H. TETLEY
Sir LEWIS L. FERMOR-
F. W. EVENS
H. H. DAVIS
Professor W. F. WHITTARD
J. H. SAVORY
R. BASSINDALE
1862—1876
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84— 87
87— 90
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167
kee ORL OF COUNCIL
1956
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168
HON. LIBRARIAN’ 5 Bete
1956
during the course of the year. Our very good collection of periodicals
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ck library continues to be used regularly, 260 books being borrowed
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HERON Ardea cinerea
S. ‘['wenty-six occupied nests, Brockley Combe, Apr. 28
(B.K., J.A.P.) ; 22 occupied nests, Uphill Grange, May 7 (W.L.R.).
No breeding reports from Orchardleigh Park, Frome, and War-
leigh Wood, Bath. Seventeen birds, Chew Valley res., Aug. 12
and twenty-five, Sept. 8 (P.J.C., M.A.W.).
MALLARD Anas platyrhynchos
G. Max. counts on Estuary, New Grounds—620, Jan. 14,
and goo, Sept. 16 (H.J.B.). Combined totals of 128, Eastville
Park and Duchess’ Pond, Stapleton (both within City boundary),
Jan. 15. eb. 13 (J.A.P.).
S. Coastal counts include: 116, Sand Bay, Feb. 12 (W.L.R.)
and 186 off Brean Down, Nov. 11 (P.J.C., M.A.W.). Totals
varying from 350-420, Blagdon res., Jan.—Feb. (B.K.B., R.P., e¢ al.)
BRISTOL BIRD REPORT 191
and from 265-385 in period Aug.—Dec. (G.C.B., S.I.B., M.A.W.
et al.). Count of 500 (450 males), Chew Valley res., May 27 and
exceptional summer total of 600, July 20 (B.K.) while from 500
to 590 reported, same place, various dates, Aug.—Oct. (G.C.B.,
P.J.C. et al.). Max. figures of 161, Barrow Gurney resrs., Feb. 12
(G.E.C.) and 163, Cheddar res., Sept. 1 (P.J.C.). Breeding records :
15-20 broods, Chew Valley (B.K.) and female with three week-old
ducklings, same reservoir, as late as Dec. 2 (G.C.B., S.I.B.).
TEAL Anas crecca
G. Highest count from the Estuary, New Grounds—6o00, Dec. 29
S. Remarkably high number of 2,500 or more, Blagdon res.,
in first fortnight of January, with record total of 2,900 on 8th
(P.J.C., H.H.D., B.K.). Counts varying between 750 and 955,
same reservoir, various dates, Nov.—Dec. (T.B.S., M.A.W. eé¢ ail.).
Max. total of 600, Chew Valley res., Sept. 22 (B.K.). The only
noteworthy coastal count is of 145, Axe Estuary, Dec. 28 (W.L.R.).
GaARGANEY Anas querquedula
S. Single male, Cheddar res., Mar. 31—Apr. 3 i K., J.A.McG.
et al.). Pair, Blagdon res. Ape. 27,207 (Gal Bie Ba).
BLUE-WINGED TEAL Anas discors
G. An adult male, evidently a wild bird, visited the W.T.
enclosures, Slimbridge, Dec. 24, and was first seen flying in from
the Estuary with a party of four Shovelers (M.D.). Still present
on successive days, being finally caught (29th) and feather-cut.
Subsequent enquiries by S.T.J. have shown that no Blue-winged
Teal had escaped from captivity and that the species is not being
kept in any Continental collection. This record will be the
subject of a note in a forthcoming issue of British Birds.
GADWALL Anas strepera
S. Up to six, Blagdon res., several dates, Feb. and up to seven
on various occasions, Nov.—Dec. (B.K., J.A.P., J.V. e¢ al.). Single
male, Chew Valley res., Oct. 28 (P.J.C., R.P.). N.B.—Some of
these may be descendants of a small population of semi-feral,
hand-reared birds at the Wildfowl Trust (Glos.).
WicEon Anas penelope
G. Largest totals on Estuary, New Grounds—c. 2,000, Jan. 12,
29—decreasing to 1,600, Feb. 13; c. 2,000, same place, Dec. 29
(H.J.B.).
192 BRISTOL BIRD REPORT
S. Numbers reported at Chew Valley res., Jan._Mar., exceeded
any previously recorded for the County ; peak totals of 2,360,
Feb. 9, and 2,200 on 18th and 26th (B.K., R.H.P. et al.) ; 2,000,
still present, same place, Mar. 11 (G.C.B. e¢ al.). A pair, Chew
Valley res., May 27, and two males and a female as late as third
week of June (B.K.). Max. total, Blagdon res.,—455, Nov. 21
(G:C.B., SB):
PInTAIL Anas acuta
G. New Grounds: counts of 183, Jan. 147 WoGy heb.) 13);
and 1159)Dec. 6. (H.yB:):
S. Present in small numbers at reservoirs with maxima of 15,
Blagdon, Jan. 13 (B.K.) and 13, Nov. 7(G.G@B SaeB)); 13)
Chew Valley, Feb. 5 (D.C. e¢ al.) and 38 (26 males), Dec. 16 (B.K.).
SHOVELER Spatula clypeata
G. The only noteworthy report is of 42 on Estuary, New
Grounds, Jan. 14 (H.J.B.).
S. Max. counts: Cheddar res.—20, Jan.1 (J.A.McG.) and
Blagdon res.—65, Nov. 15 (S.1.B.), 80, Dec. 2 (B.K.B., N.W.
et al.). Chew Valley returns of 63, Apr. 21 ; 135, Dec. 16 (B.K.)
and 70 on 30th (S.I.B.). At least three broods noted (5, 7 and 10),
same place, in period May-July (G.B., P.J.C., B.K.).
Scaup Aythya marila
S. Up to three (1 male), Cheddar res., Jan. 1—15 (H.H.D.,
J.A.McG. -¢ al.). Three (2 males), Chew Valleyiress several
dates, Jan. 22—Apr. 7, and single male, Oct. 28—Dec. 30 (various
observers). Male, Blagdon res., Sept. 22, 30) ((@.BER aver al.) %
female, same place, Nov. 24 (A.G.D.), Dec. 30, and two males,
Nov. 25 (P.J.C., M.A.W.).
TurTeD Duck Aythya fuligula
G. Twenty-five on Estuary, New Grounds, Feb. 25 and 87—
exceptional number for locality—visited W.T. enclosures, on 28th
(H.J.B., P.S.). Party of seven off Severn Beach, Oct. 29 (A.B.C.,
M.J.W.).
S. Max. reservoir counts: c. 200, Cheddar, Jan. 1 and c. 100,
Dec. 16 (J.A.McG.) ; 200-250, Blagdon, early Jan. (P.J.C., B.K.)
and up to 270, Nov.—Dec. (G.C.B., S.I.B. e¢ al.) ; 47, Barrow
Gurney, Feb. 12 (G.E.C.) ; 227, Chew Valley, Apr. 21 (B.K.)
and 275, Dec. 2 (G.C.B.). Twelve on pond, Rickford Coombe,
Feb. 25 were probably birds frozen out from Blagdon (N.W.).
Observations, late July-early Aug., Chew Valley, show that birds
BRISTOL BIRD REPORT 193
were breeding in numbers far in excess of any yet reported for
Somerset ; 13 broods (106 young) counted from roadway, July 29,
and 23 broods (142 young), Aug. 4 (P.J.C., M.A.W.), while
G.C.B. and S.I.B. counting inside reservoir confines, reported 31
broods (199 young) on following day ; two broods (about 1 week
old), same place, Aug. 25 (B.K.).
PocHARD Aythya ferina
G. Thirty-eight on Estuary, New Grounds, Feb. 25 (H.J.B.).
Single male, Cumberland Basin, Bristol, Dec. 29 (J.G. per W.A.H.).
S. Present in large numbers, Cheddar res., Jan.—Feb. (1,050 +
25, Jan. 15) and Oct.—Dec.—1,000+25, Oct. 28 and c. 1050,
Dec. 16 (J.A.McG.). Numbers at Blagdon and Chew Valley
resrs. considerably smaller, but temporary increases frequently
noted after sailing and other disturbances at Cheddar. Max.
counts: 930, Blagdon, Jan. 8 (195, Cheddar) and goo, Nov. 3
(B.K.), and 600, Chew Valley, on 4th (470, Cheddar) (G.C.B.,
Seb) 24 on the lake, Orchardleigh, Jan. 15 (E.D.O.) and
single male on pond, Rickford Coombe, Feb. 25 (N.W.).
GOLDENEYE Bucephala clangula
G. Three (1 ad. male) on Estuary, New Grounds, Apr. 29
(H.J.B.).
S. Frequently noted, Cheddar res., Jan—Feb. with max.
totals of 23, Feb. 5 and 26 on 26th (J.A.McG., T.B.S. e al.).
Seven, Chew Valley res., Jan. 22 (P.J.C.) and nine, Mar. 17 (B.K.).
Nave) (6 males), Blagdon res., Feb. 5 (P.J.C.).
Lonc-TAILED Duck Clangula hyemalis
S. One, female or immature, swimming off Old Pier, Weston-
super-Mare, viewed with telescope at 300 yds. range, Nov. 5
(W.L.R.) ; still present on 6th, when seen between pier and
Sand Bay (H.R.H.L.).
VELVET SCOTER Melanitia fusca
S. Party of five (at least 3 males) seen flying close to tide-line,
and later on water, between Clevedon and Yeo Estuary, Feb. 12
(B.K.). Only four previous records for N. Somerset (three of
single birds and one of two birds)—Eds.
Common ScOTER Melanitta nigra
S. Two females off Sand Point, Jan. 7 (T.B.S.). Unusually
large party inland of eight (7 ad. males), Cheddar res., Sept. 2
(BAG) J-A-McG., T.B.S.); single female, same place, Dec. 26
(J.A.McG.).
Cc
194 BRISTOL BIRD REPORT
EmDER Somateria mollissima
S. Adult female close inshore off Tower Rock, Steep Holm,
May 6 (Res. Stn.).
RED-BREASTED MERGANSER Mergus serrator
S. Three (2 ad. males), Chew Valley res., Feb. 19 (B.K.) ;
single redheads, same place, Feb. 26 (G.L.B.), Mar. 11 (G.C.B.,
S.I.B.) and Cheddar res., Feb. 19, 26 (B.K., J.A.McG.).
GOOSANDER Mergus merganser
G. Single bird on Estuary, New Grounds, Mar. 5 (H.J.B.).
S. Up to eight, Blagdon res., various dates, Jan.—Feb. (B.K.B.,
E.M., J.V. e al.). Nine (1 male), Cheddar ress (Feb) and
nine (3 males) on 12th (J.A.McG.) ; eleven (2 males), same
place, Feb. 19, 26 (B.K., J.A.McG.) and twelve (6 males) on
20th (A.G.D.). From four or five up to nine (max. of 6 males),
frequently noted, Chew Valley res., Feb.—Mar. (various observers)
and three still present, Apr. 4 (E.G.R.). ‘Two, Barrow Gurney
resrs., Mar. 11 (G.E.C.). Up to three reported from the reser-
voirs in Dec. (W.A.H., M.A.W., N.W. ¢é al.).
SMEw WMergus albellus
G. Party of 14 (2 ad. males) on Estuary, New Grounds, first
week of Feb. (P.S.).
S. Frequently seen, Chew Valley res., Jan.—Mar. with max.
total of thirteen (3 ad. males), Mar. 18 (GIIBSYS3 BA:
et al.). Up to three reported from Blagdon res., Feb._Mar. and
Nov.—Dec. (various observers), and up to same number, Cheddar
res., Feb. and Dec.) (j-A.McG., W.L.R }.
SHELDUCK Tadorna tadorna
G. Count of 145, on Estuary between Oldbury-upon-Severn
and Berkeley, June 3 (N.W.).
S. Counts of 300-380 reported, various occasions, Sept.—Nov.
from coastal areas—Sand Bay, Axe Estuary (R.A., T.B.S. e¢ al.).
Three, Blagdon res., Feb. 18, (B.K.B.) and two, same place,
several dates, Apr. and June (G.G.C. ef al.). Up to five reported
from Chew Valley, Apr._May (various observers) and breeding
again recorded there—pair with eight ducklings, June 24 (B.K.)
—cf. Brit. Birds, xlix, p. 280. Single bird, Cheddar res., Oct. 28
(J.A.McG.).
BRISTOL BIRD REPORT 195
GREYLAG Goose Anser anser
G. One among White-fronted Geese, New Grounds, Feb. 17
iid. |.B.).
S. What appeared to be a Greylag was seen with party of 14
A. albifrons, Clevedon, Feb. 12 (B.K.).
WHITE-FRONTED GoosE Anser albifrons albifrons
G. New Grounds: from total of 1,410 at close of previous
year numbers increased to 3,100, Feb. 1, and record total of ¢.5,000
(possibly more) on 27th, but were down to 3,000, Mar. 1 and little
more than 400, Mar. 23. Party of six remained, same place, till
Apr. 15, while two (one not flying well) stayed throughout summer
and were last seen, Aug. 13 (H.J.B.). 100 flying east, Wick,
Mar. 17 (D.R.H.). First autumn arrivals, New Grounds: 28,
Sept. 24—numbers increasing to 188, Sept. 26; 355, Oct. 27;
Ba@, Noy. 23; -and at least 1,700, Dec. 29 (H.J.B.).
S. A few, Chew Valley res., mid-Jan. to mid-Feb., and num-
bers varying from 200-350, third week of Feb. to Mar. 25 (G.C.B.,
Meeps. 1, R.E.P.-e al.). One, injured, Cheddar res., Feb. 19
(B.K.B., J.A.McG.) and 250 flying north over Barrow Hill on
26th (P.J.C., M.A.W.). Small numbers (max. 48) reported from
Yeo Estuary, Sand Bay and Clevedon, various occasions, Jan. 9—
feo. 26 (R.A., 1.B.S., N.W. ef al.). Party of twelve overhead,
Keynsham, Feb. 11 (B.K..).
GREENLAND WHITE-FRONTED GoosE Anser albifrons flavirostris
G. Two, New Grounds, Jan. 9, 10 (H.J.B.) and one, paired
to a bird of typical form, Mar. 24, 25 (G.V.T.M.).
LEssER WHITE-FRONTED GoosE Anser erythropus
G. Six, possibly eight (at least 2 juveniles), New Grounds,
during period Jan. 10—Mar. 12 (H.J.B.)—cf. Brit. Birds, xlix, p. 228.
BEAN GoosE Anser arvensis
G. Two, New Grounds, Mar. 9 and one on rith (P.S.) ;
ene, same place, Dec. 29 (H.J.B.).
PINK-FOOTED GoosE Anser brachyrhynchus
G. Up to 51 still present, New Grounds, Jan. 1-3 ; numbers
much fewer subsequently, but 24 counted, Jan. 28, and not more
than six on any occasion, Feb.—early Mar. First autumn arrivals,
Same place: 55, Oct. 27; similar totals throughout Nov., with
max. of 65 on 11th. One only, Dec. 8 to end of year (H.J.B.).
196 BRISTOL BIRD REPORT
BARNACLE GoosE Branta leucopsis
G. One with White-fronts, New Grounds, Mar. 11 (D.R.S.
per Hp B:):
CANADA GoosE’ Branta canadensis
S. Single bird, with White-fronted Geese, Chew Valley res.,
Mar. 4-25 (various observers).
MutTE Swan Cygnus olor
S. Seventy, R. Avon at Old Bridge, Bath, Mar. 8—average
summer population, c. 50 (B.K.). Counts of 66-70, Blagdon res.,
July 22—-Aug. 26 (P.J.C., B.K., M.A.W.). Max: totals, Chew
Valley res.; 46, Sept. 8 (B-K.) and 45, Oct 27.(E Ga
WHOOPER SWAN Cygnus cygnus
G. First-year bird, New Grounds, Feb. 12-15 (H.J.B.).
S. One with Bewick’s Swans, Blagdon res., Feb. g—-Apr. 8
(B.K., A.C.L., J.A.P., W-L.R., J.V. ef al)= firstereconde ton) tine
reservoir.
BEWICK’S SWAN C'ygnus bewickii
G. Two in W.T. enclosures or on the Estuary, New Grounds,
Feb. 2—-Apr. 3, were joined by others to max. number of sixteen,
Feb. 13 (H.J.B.). Party of twelve, identified by size and typical
call-notes, overhead, Clifton, in early hours of Feb. 24 (P.J.C.).
S. Following advent of severe weather, early Feb., birds
reported from the reservoirs in unprecedented numbers ; counts
from 20 to 40, Blagdon, frequent occasions in period Feb. 9 to
Mar. 24, and from 18-53, Chew Valley, in period Feb. 23 to Mar.
24 (various observers). Observations at same reservoirs, Feb. 26,
Mar. 4, 11, suggest that at least 100 birds were in the area (G.L.B.,
P.J.C., B.K., R.H.P. et ai.). Up to four (immatures) still present
Chew Valley, second week of April (B.K., H.W.N., M.A.W.).
Party of eleven, Blagdon res., Nov. 25—Dec. 30 (B.K.B., N.W. e al.).
BuzzZArRpD. Buteo buteo
G. Survey of 400 sq. kms., covering Severn Vale south of
Sharpness, together with adjacent areas north of Bristol to Wickwar
and Badminton, revealed only one pair breeding—nest containing
single young, nr. Berkeley, June 24 (A.E.B., D.C., D.M.C. eé al.).
S. Repeat of 1954 Survey area of c. 86 sq. kms. showed 8 pairs
resident—four young reared from five nests—compared with 9
pairs and five nests in 1954 (before myxomatosis) and only 3
pairs with nests in 1955. Three pairs located in additional
areas totalling c. 200 sq. kms.—three young reared in one of two
nests found (survey by 20 observers).
BRISTOL BIRD REPORT 197
SPARROWHAWK ..25 (BAC) igSmele joumds
reported from Blagdon res., Feb. 26 (B.K.), Auga 6 (i Bis))k
Wookey, Mar. 26; Worth (nr. Wookey), Apr. 1 (J.A.McG.) ;
Kenn Moor, Apr. 21 (R.A.) ; Saltford, June 29 (B.K.) ; Wood-
spring, Aug. 7 (R.A.); Long Ashton, Sept. 18) (WEACY amd
Kewstoke, Nov. 21 (T.B.S.).
WRYNECK § Jynx torquilla
G. One in grounds of H.M. Prison, Leyhill, ‘Tortworth,
sept. 10) 11 (1D) BsP:S:):
BRISTOL BIRD REPORT 205
Woopn.iaARK Lullula arborea
G. One, Wotton-under-Edge, Jan. 20, Sept. 2, and four,
Nov. 4; one, North Nibley, Aug. 19; and two pairs, Dursley,
Pape. 22 (19.B:P.5.).
S. One heard, Brockley Combe, Mar. 18 (P.J.C.).
RAVEN Corvus corax
G. Reported in ones and twos from Purton—New Grounds
area, Jan._Feb. and again on Nov. 23 (H.J.B. e al.). Two,
Stinchcombe, May 5 (D.B.P.S.).
S. One, Tickenham Hill, Jan. 15 (R.G.H.). Reported from
Brean Down, Steep Holm and Sand Point (various observers)
but the only breeding record is from Brean Down (W.L.R.).
CARRION CROW Corvus corone
G. Occupied nest on Helicopter Rotor Testing Tower, Filton
aerodrome, May 4 (R.A.).
S. Three, Steep Holm, Mar. 9, and nest with 3 eggs (later
deserted) found in sycamore, May 4 (Res. Stn.). Three young
reared in nest on metal framework of arc lamps attached to hangar,
Whitchurch Airport (J.B. per G.B.).
Roox Corvus frugilegus
Ss») One mest.on electricity pylon, Uphill, Apr. 9 (W.L.R.).
WiLLow Tir Parus atricapillus
G. One, clearly identified, feeding in orchard, Oldbury-upon-
pevern, Jan. 29. (R.H.P.)
DrpreR Cinclus cinclus
G. Occasional records—single birds only—R. Boyd, Wick,
throughout year (D.R.H.).
S. Nesting again reported on R. Chew (G.B., T.H.). One
by entrance to Wookey Hole cave, R. Axe, Dec. 18 (J.A.McG.).
Sonc THrusH Turdus philomelos
G. Nestling ringed on Clifton Down, Bristol, 25/4/48, found
dead, Clifton, 9/5/56 (R.H.P.).
BLacKBiRD. Turdus merula
G. One ringed as juvenile, Mangotsfield, 2/6/56, recovered
32 m. E.S.E. at Pewsey, Wilts, 10/9 /56 (D.M.C.).
WHEATEAR Oenanthe cenanthe
S. Bred successfully, Wavering Down, Compton Bishop—
three pairs each with two young ; fourth pair also present, June 10
(P.J.M.N.).
206 BRISTOL BIRD REPORT
STONECHAT Saxicola torquata
G. and S. Numerous winter and autumn reports, but only
one breeding record—brood of young, Brean Down, July 21
(P.J.C.).
Repstart Phoenicurus phoenicurus
G. Single male, Stoke Gifford, Mar. 30; for previous record
on such an exceptionally early date—see Proc. B.N.S., 1955, p. 126
(H.H.D.).
Biack RepstartT Phoenicurus ochruros
S. Single females or immatures, Sand Point, Jan. 28, Feb. 4,
18, Mar. 17 (R:A.); Lansdown, Bath,.Mar. 17 5(G:G:C)) ;
Uphill, Mar. 19 (T.B.S.) ; and Brean Down; Nov-ji9 aE )-G.
M.A.W.).
Rosin Erithacus rubecula
S. Three, Steep Holm, Mar. 10-12; none recorded, Apr.
May, June, but at least 10 holding territories, Sept. 29-30 (Res.
Stn.)—cf. also Proc. B.N.S., 1953, p. 401.
GRASSHOPPER WARBLER Locustella naevia
G. Breeding season records from Michaelwood, nr. Tortworth,
Wotton-under-Edge, and Owlpen, nr. Uley (D.B.P.S.).
S. Single birds, Shiplate, May 5 and Brean Down, June 11
(R.A.). At least 6 singing birds, Rowberrow plantation, May 6
(N.W.).
LrEssER WHITETHROAT Sylvia curruca
S. Nest with eggs, Chewton Keynsham, May 27 (G.B.).
Woop WARBLER Phylloscopus sibilatrix
G. Two singing males, Dursley—probably bred (D.R.H.)
and one, Michaelwood, Tortworth, May 27, June 9 (D.B.P.S.).
S. Ten singing males, Leigh Woods—three nests located
(P.J.C.). Fourteen singing males recorded in area of 1824
sq. kms. between Bristol-Clevedon-Congresbury-Blagdon and
south to Priddy, Mendip (survey by 15 members).
Goxtpcrest Regulus regulus
S. One, Steep Holm, Sept. 29—trapped and ringed on 30th ;
one, same place, Dec. 1 (Res. Stn.).
Prep FLycATCHER Muscicapa hypoleuca
G. Pair, Wotton-under-Edge, May 4 (D.B.P.S.).
BRISTOL BIRD REPORT 207
S. Adult male, Bleadon, Apr. 15-19 and on 26th (E.H.C.).
Single female, Brockley Combe, Apr. 28 (B.K.).
Rock Pipir Anthus spinoletta petrosus
S. Sixteen, Steep Holm, Mar. 9-12 (Res. Stn.).
WatTER Pipir Anthus spinoletta spinoletta
S. Iwo, Cheddar res., Apr. 1-3 (B.K., J.A.McG. eé al.)—
detailed descriptions received.
RED-BACKED SHRIKE Lanius collurio
S) bred nr. Cheddar res. (J.A.McG.). Female, nr. Leigh
Woods, June 9 (P.J.C.).
GoupFINcH Carduelis carduelis
S. Adult feeding fledged young, Kewstoke, as late as Sept. 23
(T.B.S.).
SISKIN Carduelis spinus
G. Two, Wotton-under-Edge, Jan. 6, and Old Decoy, Purton,
iar. 17 (D.B.P.S.).
LessER REDPOLL Carduelis flammea cabaret
S. Five in silver birches, Blagdon res., Jan. 8, and two, Oct. 7
(B.K.).
CuHarrincu Fringilla coelebs
G. South-westerly movement, Aust Cliff, Oct. 21—1,865
counted, of which 1,783 flying S.W., 0630-1000 G.M.T.; wind
W.S.W., force 3-4 (B.K.B., P.J.C., M.A.W.).
S. One ringed, Long Ashton, 12/2/55, found dead, Leksand
(Copparberg), Sweden, 26/8/56 (G.E.C.).
BRAMBLING § Fringilla montifringilla
G. Up to fifty along riverbank, Shirehampton—Avonmouth,
ep. 12, 19 (R.H.P.).
S. Selected records—up to 100, Chew Valley res., Feb. 5-
Mar. 19 (G.L.B., B.K.) ; approximately 60, Hutton, Feb. 23
ey .L.R.).
Corn Bunting Emberiza calandra
G. One, Nympsfield, Apr. 12, and four, Bagpath, Oct. 15
(D.B.P.S.). Two singing males, Hawkesbury Upton, Apr. 15
(P.J.M.N.).
208 BRISTOL BIRD REPORT
S. One, Lansdown, Bath, Mar. 24 (G.G.C.).
Cirt Buntinc Emberiza cirlus
S. Breeding season records: two, Bleadon, May 4 (W.L.R.) ;
single birds, Sand Point, May 5 (T.B.S.) and Wrington, May 12,
26 (P.J.M.N.). Probably bred, Monkton Combe (A.G.D.).
Reep Buntinc Emberiza schoeniclus
S. Bred, Chew Valley res. (G.L.B.). One, female or immature,
Steep Holm, Sept. 30, arrived with migrating passerines from
Flat Holm direction ; this or another seen later on plateau (Res.
Stns)
LAPLAND BuntTING Calcarius lapponicus
G. One, a first winter female, found in an outhouse, Wotton-
under-Edge, in October, was identified by J.R.L. and C.M.S. ;
identification confirmed from outer tail feather sent to Brit.
Museum (Nat. Hist.). Its behaviour, and appearance, was that
of a wild bird, but it should be noted that the species is some-
times kept in captivity and that the bird had flown into a shed
housing Canaries and other cage-birds.
House Sparrow Passer domesticus
G. Adult male ringed, Hambrook, 21/10/52, found dead,
same: place; 2/0/50, (R-FiLE)).
TREE SPARROW Passer monianus
G. Breeding records from Little Stoke (H.H.D.) and Hambrook
CREP.)
BRISTOL BIRD REPORT, 1955
ERRATA
MALLARD S., line 6—for Sept. 18, 25 read Sept. 18.
SCAUP S., line 3—for Dec. 19-21 read Dec. 2€.
POCHARD S., line 1—for Jan. 5 read Jan. 15.
S., line 3—for Mar. 13 read Nov. 13.
MoorHEN G., line 2—add date, Nov. 6.
‘TURNSTONE S., line 3—one, Aug. 20 (B.K.B.) should read three,
Aug. 29° (GEABse
DUNLIN S., line 1—for Jan. 1 read Jan. 15.
SANDERLING _ §S., line 1—for May 5 read May 5-9.
LessER BLACK-
BACKED GuLL S&., line 13—for July 7 read July 30.
Rook S., line 3—for 92 read 56.
line 4/5—for same size read 17 nests.
209
LEPIDOPTERA NOTES
PeISTOL DISTRICT, 1956
By C. 8S. H. BratHwayt, M.A., F.R.E.S.
FTER a mild January and exceptionally cold February the
Spring months were dry but generally rather cold. The
Summer months were, however, wet and there were no long
periods of fine weather. The Autumn was fine and the year
ended with a moderate December.
The year was a bad one so far as butterflies were concerned,
but was on the whole surprisingly good for moths, some interesting
species being taken in the area. Perhaps the best capture was
of a specimen of Cosymbia pupillaria at Weston in late September.
The following notes are taken from records supplied by Dr.
A.M. Campbell (A.M.C.), Messrs. G. H. W. Cruttwell (G.H.W.C.),
H. W. Bird (H.W.B.), and also from my own records (C.S.H.B.).
As all the Weston records are my own and virtually all those
from Clevedon are by H. W. Bird I have omitted initials after
records from these two places, except in one case from Clevedon
where the record is my own.
Aglais urticae Linn. (Ab. Pallida) (Small Tortoiseshell). Frome, Mar. 9 (G.H.W.C.) .
Acherontia atropos Linn. (Death’s-head Hawk). One at light, Weston, Aug. 7.
Herse convolvuli Linn. (Convolvulus Hawk). Two at light, Weston, Sept. 10
and 14, and two reported from Bristol in Sept. (P. Bird).
Clostera curtula Linn. (Large Chocolate-tip). Two at light, Weston, May 19
and 21, and two at light at Clevedon in May.
Tethea ocularis Linn. (octogesima Hubn.) (Figure of Eighty). A few at light,
Clevedon, in June.
Pseudoips bicolorana Fuessl. (quercana Schiff.) (Scarce Silver-lines). Several at
light, Weston in July.
Spilosoma urticae Esp. (Water Ermine). One at Clevedon at light, June 20,
Several at Shapwick at light in early June (A. Richardson).
Cybosia mesomella Linn. (Four-dotted Footman). One at Clevedon at light
June 27. Common at Shapwick in June (C.S.H.B.).
Lithosia quadra Linn. (Large Footman). 27 at light, Weston, July 19-27, and
another on Sept. 23. Three at light, Clevedon, July 27.
Apatele leporina Linn. (Miller). One at light, Weston, July 27.
Agrotis ripae Hubn. (Sand Dart). Common at Sugar Berrow, June 23 and
July 21 (C.S.H.B.).
D
210 Cc. S. H. BLATHWAYT
Actebia praecox Linn. (Portland Dart). One at light, Clevedon, July 8 and
another at Weston, Aug. 17.
Graphiphora augur Fabr. (Double Dart). One at light, Weston, July 19.
Amathes ditrapezium Borkh. (Triple-spotted Clay). Three at Clevedon in June
and July. One at Weston, July 19.
Anaplectoides prasina Fabr. (Green-arches). Two at light, Clevedon, late June.
Three at light, Weston, late June and early July.
Hadena suasa Schiff. (dissimilis Knoch) (Dog’s-tooth). Fairly common at light,
Clevedon and Weston, May to August.
Hadena contigua Vill. (Beautiful Brocade). Two at light, Clevedon, June 28
and July 17.
Hadena bombycina Hufn. (glauca Hubn.) (Glaucous Shears). One at light,
Clevedon, May 30.
Hadena conspersa Esp. (nana Rott.) (Common Marbled Coronet). Fairly Common
at light, Clevedon, late May to early July. Two at light, Weston, May 14
and 23.
Procus literosa Haw. (Rosy Minor). One at light, Clevedon, Aug. 9. A few
at light, Weston, July—Aug.
Apamea furva Hubn. (Confused Brindle). One at light, Weston, July to.
Apamea unanimis Hubn. (Small Clouded Brindle). Fairly common Clevedon,
in June.
Apamea sublustris Esp. (Reddish Light Arches). A few at light, Weston and
common at Clevedon, June and July.
Apamea scolopacina Esq. (Slender Brindle). One at light, Weston, July 19.
Dasypolia templi Thunb. (Brindled Ochre). One at light, Weston, Oct. 11.
Hydraecia paludis Tutt (Saltern Ear), Several at light, Clevedon and Weston
in August.
Chilodes maritima Tausch. (Silky Wainscot). One at light, Clevedon, Aug. 8.
Leucania littoralis Curt. (Shore Wainscot). Common at dusk and at Sugar
Berrow, June 23 and July 21 (C.S.H.B.).
Cosmia pyralina View. (Lunar-spotted Pinion). One at light, Clevedon, July 17
and another at light, Leigh Woods (A.M.C.).
Cosmia affinis Linn. (Lesser-spotted Pinion). One at light, Weston, Aug. 19.
Kenobia subtusa Fabr. (Olive Kidney). One at light, Clevedon, Aug. 8.
Orthosia populeti Treits. (Lead-coloured Drab). Several at Sallow, Clevedon,
April 7 (C.S.H.B.).
Orthosia advena Schiff. (opima Hubn.) (Northern Drab). One at light, Clevedon,
oe Many et
Anchoscelis litura Linn. (Brown-spot Chestnut). One at light, Weston, Sept. 20.
Cirrhia giluago Esp. (Dusky-lemon Sallow). Several at light, Weston, Sept.
and early Oct. and also Leigh Woods (A.M.C.).
LEPIDOPTERA NOTES 211
Lithophane semibrunnea Haw. (Tawny Pinion). One at Ivy, Dyrham, Nov. 3
(C.S.H.B.).
Lithophane socia Rott. (Pale Pinion). Several at light and Ivy, Weston, late
Sept. and Oct.
Pyrrhia umbra Hufn. (Bordered Orange). Four at light, Clevedon, June and July.
Heliothis peltigera Schiff. (Dark Bordered Straw). One at light, Weston, Sept. 24.
Heliothis armigera Hubn. (Scarce Bordered Straw). Two at light, Weston,
Sept. 23 and 24.
Lygephila pastinum Treits. (Plain Blackneck). Several at light, Clevedon in July
and one at Weston, July 9.
Herminia barbalis Clerck (Common Fanfoot). One at light, Clevedon, June 24.
Bomolocha fontis Thunb. (Beautiful Snout). One at light, Clevedon, June 27.
Sterrha dilutaria Hubn. (holosericata Dup.) (Silky Wave). A few, Bristol, July 21
(C.S.H.B.).
Sterrha trigeminata Haw. (Treble-spot Wave). Fairly common at light, Clevedon,
June and July.
Cosymbia puppillaria Hubn. (Blair’s Mocha). One at light, Weston, Sept. 24.
Nothopteryx polycommata Hubn. (Barred Tooth-striped). Several at rest, Abbots
Leigh, March 30 and Apr. 7 (C.S.H.B.).
Philereme vetulata Schiff. (Brown Scallop). Several at light, Clevedon and
Weston, July.
Philereme transversata Hufn. (rhamnata Schiff.) (Dark Scallop). Several at light,
Weston, in July.
Thera variata Schiff. (Grey Spruce Carpet). One at light, Clevedon, June 23
and another at Weston, Sept. 24.
Discoloxia blomeri Curt. (Blomer’s Rivulet). A few at light, Clevedon and
Weston, June and July.
Perizoma bifaciata Haw. (unifasciata Haw.) (Barred Rivulet). A few at light,
Clevedon, late May and late July and early Aug.
ae tantillaria Boisd. (pusillata Fabr) (Dwarf Pug). Three at light, Clevedon
in June.
Eupithecia succenturiata Linn. (Bordered Pug). One at light, Clevedon, July 2.
Abraxas sylvata Scop. (Clouded Magpie). Common at light, Weston in June
and July and one as late as Sept. ro.
Selenia lunaria Schiff. (Lunar Thorn). One at light, Weston, June 7.
Apocheima hispidaria Fabr. (Small Brindled-beauty). A few at light near Glaston-
bury, Mar. 3 (C.S.H.B.).
Margaronia unionalis Hubn. (Scarce Olive-tree Pearl). Three at light, Weston,
late Sept. and early Oct.
ee mucronellus Schiff. (Scarce Water-veneer). One at Clevedon on
une 20.
212 Cc. S. H. BLATHWAYT
Nymphula stratiotata Linn. (Ringed China-mark). One at Clevedon on July 8.
Diasemia litterata Scop. (Lettered China-mark). One at Clevedon on Aug. to.
Dioryctria abietella Fabr. (Pine Knot-horn). Two at Clevedon in August.
Chilo phragmitellus Hubn. (Wainscot Grass-veneer). One at Clevedon on June 23.
Alucita galactodactyla Schiff. (Spotted White Plume). Larvae and pupae found,
Goblin Coombe, May 30 (H.W.B.).
213
SeUDIES ON THE BIOLOGY
Ge THE BRISTOL CHANNEL
XVIII
THE MARINE FAUNA AT FIVE STATIONS ON THE
NORTHERN SHORES OF THE BRISTOL CHANNEL
AND SEVERN ESTUARY
By ii. DD) Purcuon, Ph.D.;-2.L:S.,
RAFFLES PROFESSOR OF ZOOLOGY, UNIVERSITY OF MALAYA, SINGAPORE
INTRODUCTION
HE writer has been interested in the distribution of the
estuarine and marine fauna of the Severn Estuary and the
Bristol Channel since 1937 when he studied the beach at Portishead,
near Bristol (Purchon, 1937). Since that date there has been a
series of publications on the distribution of the fauna of the Southern
Shores of the Bristol Channel (‘‘ Studies on the Biology of the
Bristol Channel ’’, in the Proceedings of the Bristol Naturalists’
Society), largely produced by members of the Department of
Zoology, University of Bristol.
Between October 1945 and June 1950 attention was turned to
the Northern Shores of the Bristol Channel. Beaches within
easy reach of Cardiff were first studied in order to make the most
rapid progress (Purchon, 1947). Between 1947 and 1950 efforts
were made to extend the survey higher up the Channel and into
the estuary of the Severn, and also further out towards the open sea.
At the same time, with much outside assistance, an attempt
was made to estimate the seasonal variations in salinity to which
the shores of South Wales and Monmouthshire are subjected,
since variation in salinity is probably the primary factor in deter-
mining the distribution of intertidal species along the shores of
an estuary.
These studies were brought to a close when the writer took up
an appointment overseas. The survey at Dale Fort was well
advanced, but the surveys at Llantwit Major, Kenfig, Marros,
and the Mumbles were far from complete. Since the writer will
have no further opportunity of completing these surveys, and
since even these preliminary data contain much that is new,
it is thought desirable to publish the records up to date, in the
214 R. D. PURCHON
hope that their very incompleteness will encourage others to
continue the surveys,
The writer wishes to express his sincere thanks to the following:—
The University of Wales, for defraying the cost of a boat for
trawling in Swansea Bay.
Mr. Garner, Coxswain of the Mumbles Lifeboat, for his co-
operation in boatwork in Swansea Bay.
The Officers of the Coastguard Station at Rhossili, Cowell
Miss Joan Bishop at Port Talbot, Miss Edith Bruce at Monk Nash,
the Pier Master at Penarth, and Mr. H. H. Howells at Lydney,
for their kindness in collecting water samples for the estimation
of salinity at regular intervals over a period of twelve months
and often at considerable personal inconvenience.
Mr. G. D. Waugh for co-operation in field work at The Mumbles
and at Llantwit Major.
Mr. Gareth Owen, Mr. T. D. [es and Miss J. Bishop and many
other students in the Department of Zoology, University College,
Cardiff for their help in collecting and identifying specimens at
Portskewett, Llantwit Major and Kenfig.
SALINITY
Water samples were collected at various stations along the
northern shores of the Bristol Channel, and were sent to University
College, Cardiff, where the salinity was determined. The samples
taken at each station were as follows :—
Worms Head, Gower. Spring and neap tide samples were taken
from the shore once a month from August, 1948 till May, 1949.
There was no apparent seasonal variation in salinity, nor any
consistent differences between spring and neap tides. Variations
in salinity between the extremes recorded of 31.5 and 33.5 parts
per thousand appeared to be random, but may have been due to
variations in local rainfall.
Port Talbot. Spring and neap tide samples were taken from the
shore once a month from June, 1948 till April, 1949. Variation
in salinity appeared to be random between the extremes of 28.3
and 32.2 °/oo.
Monk Nash. Spring and neap tide samples were taken from the
shore in June, September, and December, 1948 and in April, 1949.
At this station there appeared to be a slight seasonal change in
salinity, which was above 30 °/oo during early and late summer,
and below this level in the winter and spring. ‘The data are not
adequate on this point. Salinity varied between 27.5 and 31.5 °/ 00.
Penarth Pier. Weekly samples were taken from the end of the
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216 Rs. D. PURCHON
Pier from May, 1948 till March, 1949. ‘There was a slight seasonal
change in salinity, but this was insignificant compared with
sudden changes in salinity from week to week. These sudden
fluctuations were probably due to the proximity of river mouths
and local variations in rainfall.
Salinity at Penarth ranged from 20.5 to 28.0 °/oo0. Rees
(1939) recorded the salinity at high tide in Cardiff Roads at
monthly intervals. His station would probably have been
directly offshore from Penarth Pier, and his data are similar
to those here recorded. Rees showed a distinct seasonal change
from a minimum of 19.8 °/oo in January to a maximum of
28.0 °/oo in August.
Peterstone Wentlloog. Rees (i940) took samples from the shore
and found the salinity to vary from 20.0 °/ 00 to 25.5 °/ oo.
Severn Bridge. Water samples were taken at Low Water, Half
Flood and at High Water, in April, June and September, 1948
and in January, 1949. Here there is a pronounced seasonal
change in salinity, which ranged from 5 to 18 °/oo in the summer,
but from o to 1.5 °/oo in the winter. Thus species living at
any level on the beach in this area must be capable of a gradual
seasonal acclimatisation of this order. A much more severe
strain is placed on fixed organisms by the relatively rapid change
in salinity from Low Water to High Water. As has been ex-
plained with lucidity by Bassindale (1943), the foot of the tidal
wave is retarded in the upper reaches of the estuary, the duration
of rise is reduced and the duration of fall is increased. The
greatest rate of change of salinity is experienced during the rise
of a Spring Tide, which is completed in 2 hours 53 minutes at
Severn Bridge. ‘Thus in a period of about 3 hours there may be
a change of about 12 °/ 00 in salinity, i.e. a rate of change of 4 °/ 00
per hour. It must be remembered that such a change is only fully
experienced by sedentary organisms occupying the lower part of
the beach. ‘Therefore in this zone of the estuary those species
which are adapted to long exposure and life on the upper half
of the beach will be able to extend their range further up the
shores of the estuary than those which are not so adapted, and
are obliged to occupy the lower part of the beach, unless the latter
are markedly euryhaline.
In Fig. 2 the maxima and minima for the above six stations
are plotted. It will be seen that as one passes up the Bristol
Channel there is a steady fall in the average salinity which is
accompanied by a steady rise in the total range of variation.
When the range of variation in salinity is expressed as the percentage
change at that station, as shown in the graph, the severity of
these changes in the upper reaches of the Channel and the mouth
of the Severn is emphasised.
STUDIES ON THE BIOLOGY OF THE BRISTOL CHANNEL 217
100
ae ff 8
>»
=
74
x = bobo
<=
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a ze,
= ns 40
)
& 2
=
& 20
°
\ SEVERN PENARTH MONK PORT WORMS
BRIDGE PE TERSTONE NASH TALBOT HEAD
WENTLLOOG
Fic. 2. GRAPHIG REPRESENTATION OF THE MAXIMUM SALINITY AND MINIMUM
SALINITY RECORDED IN ONE YEAR AT A SERIES OF COLLECTING STATIONS ON THE
NORTHERN SHORES OF THE BriIstoL CHANNEL AND SEVERN EsTuarRy. THE
BROKEN LINE SHOWS THE SAME DATA IN TERMS OF THE PERCENTAGE CHANGE IN
SALINITY AT EACH STATION
PORTSKEWETT
The beach at Portskewett lies a little further up the estuary
than that of Portishead on the opposite shore, and in general one
would expect to find a close resemblance between the faunas of
these two beaches. Since Portskewett is a considerable distance
from University College, Cardiff, it was only possible to visit
this beach once, with a group of three Honours Students, on
October 21, 1949. Many species which one would expect to
find at Portskewett, by comparison with Portishead, will not
have been recorded due to the impossibility of making a com-
parably exhaustive survey.
The uppermost zone on the beach, above high water of neap
tides, consisted of stretches of muddy gravel, occasional boulders
and shallow pools. Pelvetia canaliculata and Fucus spiralis were
poorly developed. From H.W.N.T. to about L.W.N.T., the beach
consisted of very large immovable boulders and pockets of stiff mud.
Above mean sea level the predominant alga was Ascophyllum
nodosum, the fronds of which were of great length, while below,
Fucus serratus predominated. From L.W.N.T. to L.W.S.T. the rocks
were flat and bare, with occasional shallow pools. This zone, which
is subjected to very powerful currents towards low tide, will
experience a very considerable change in salinity in a period
of less than 6 hours. The absence of Sabellaria alveolata (only
very poorly developed at Portishead, Purchon, 1937), the rarity
of Nymphon? gracile and the poor development of Sertularia cupres-
sina are probably due to the strong water currents on this part
of the beach during the later part of the ebb tide.
218 R. D. PURCHON
The most remarkable feature of the beach at Portskewett was
the distribution of Littorina rudis. ‘This species was relatively small
and rare on the upper half of the beach. Unusually large speci-
mens were common on the bare rocks below L.W.N.T. where
there was no apparent source of food, and where they were sub- |
jected to powerful water currents. Yonge (1949) indicates the
normal vertical distribution of this species on the sea-shore (P. 197,
Fig. 60) to which this forms a striking and possibly unique exception.
Fauna List at Portskewett
—
CCELENTERATA
HypDROZOA
Tubularia indivisa L.
Sertularia cupressina (L.)
ANTHOZOA
Tealia felina (L.)
NEMERTINI
Lineus gesserensis O. F. Miller
ANNELIDA
POLYCHAETA
Nereis diversicolor O. F. Miller
N. virens Sars
Amphitrite johnstoni Malmgren
ARTHROPODA
CRUSTACEA
Cirripedia
Balanus improvisus Darwin
Malacostraca
Isopoda
Sphaeroma serratum (Fabricius)
Ligia oceanica L.
Idotea balthica (Pallas)
Amphipoda
Gammarus zaddachi Sexton, var.
salinus
Marinogammarus marinus (Leach)
Orchestia mediterranea A. Costa
Talitrus saltator (Montagu)
Decapoda
Crangon vulgaris L.
Carcinus maenas (Pennant)
PYCNOGONIDA
Nymphon ? gracile Leach
INSECTA
Petrobius sp
Lipura maritima Guérin
MOLLUSCA
PLACOPHORA
Lepidochiton cinereus (L.)
GASTROPODA
Littorina rudis (Maton)
L. littoralis (L.)
Hydrobia ulvae (Pennant)
Patella vulgata L.
Adalaria proxima Alder &
Hancock
POLYZOA
ECTOPROCTA
Electra hastingsae Marcus
Callopora aurita (Hincks)
VERTEBRATA
PISCES
Anguilla vulgaris Turton
Gobius minutus Pallas
LLANTWIT MAJOR
The shore at Llantwit Major was visited once during 1948
and once during 1949, with parties of Honours Students. The
uppermost part of the beach was occupied by a shingle bank,
through which a large stream trickled. Below the shingle, the
beach was very exposed, and consisted of broad flat sheets of
rock and small boulders. The rock surface and the boulders
were rather smooth and lacked crevices, the growth of large
species of alga was weak, and the stream spread widely over the
area, depressing the salinity. All these factors made for an
STUDIES ON THE BIOLOGY OF THE BRISTOL CHANNEL 219
impoverished intertidal fauna. Undoubtedly, however, if the
shore were studied exhaustively over a wider area, very many
additions would be made to the fauna lst here recorded.
At low water mark of spring tides the boulder zone was
similar to that found at Breaksea Point (Purchon, 1947), but
here there were no overhanging rock ledges nor any exposures
of friable rocks in the crevices of which a rich fauna would be
expected. A strip of sand extending down to low water mark
was not examined in detail.
Altogether, 65 species have been recorded from the shore at
Llantwit Major, 13 of which are new records for the northern
shores of the Bristol Channel (* in the accompanying list) ; 9 of
these new records are apparently new for both northern and
southern shores of the Bristol Channel, Kefersteinia cirrata having
been found at Blue Anchor and Crista eburnea at Ilfracombe
(Bassindale, 1941) (while Crista eburnea, Osilinus lineatus, Ophiothrix
fragilis occur at Porlock Weir (Bassindale, 1943).
Fauna List at Llantwit Major
PARAZOA
Halichondria panicea (Pallas)
Hymeniacidon sanguinea (Grant)
CELENTERATA
HyDROZOA
Tubularia indivisa L.
Dynamena pumila (L.)
ANTHOZOA
Tealia felina (L.)
Actinia equina L.
Sagartia troglodytes (Price)
PLATYHELMINTHES
‘TURBELLARIA
Leptoplana_ tremellaris
(O. F. Miller)
NEMERTINI
Lineus gesserensis O. F. Miller
Amphiporus lactifloreus (Johnston)
ANNELIDA
POLYCHAETA
* Fulalia viridis (O. F. Miller)
* Nereis irrorata (Malmgren)
* Perinereis cultrifera (Grube)
* Nephthys caeca (O. F. Miiller)
Nerine cirratulus (Della Chiaje)
* Kefersteinia cirrata (Keferstein)
Pomatoceros triqueter (L.)
Apomatus similis Marion &
Bobretzsky
*Lanice conchilega (Pallas)
Sabellaria alveolata (L.)
ARCHIANNELIDA
Dinophilus sp.
ARTHROPODA
CRUSTACEA
Cirripedia
Balanus improvisus Darwin
B. balanoides (L.)
B. perforatus Bruguiére
Chthamalus stellatus (Poli)
Verruca stroemia (O. F. Miller)
MALACOSTRACA
Isopoda
Jaera marina (Fabricius)
*Idotea balthica (Pallas)
Ligia oceanica (L.)
Amphipoda
Marinogammarus marinus (Leach)
Orchestia gammarella (Pallas)
Decapoda
Leander serratus (Pennant)
Porcellana platycheles (Pennant)
P. longicornis (L.)
Carcinus maenas (Pennant)
Cancer pagurus L.
Eupagurus bernhardus (L.)
MOLLUSCA
PLACOPHORA
Lepidochiton cinereus (L.)
* Acanthochitona crinitus (Pennant),
GASTROPODA
Patella vulgata L.
* Emarginula fissura (L.)
Gibbula cineraria (L.)
bo
bo
oO
R. D. PURCHON
G. umbilicalis (da Costa) Berenicia patina (Lamk.)
* Osilinus lineatus (da Costa) Membranipora pilosa (L.)
Littorina rudis (Maton) *Crisia eburnea (L.)
L. littorea (L.) Alcyonidium polyoum (Hass.)
Ocenebra erinacea (L.)
Nucella lapillus (L.) ECHINODERMATA
*Cratena aurantia (Alder & ASTEROIDEA
Hancock) Solaster papposus (L.)
Adalaria proxima Alder & Henricia sanguinolenta
Hancock (O. F. Miller)
LAMELLIBRANCHIA OPHIUROIDEA
Mytilus edulis L. ae squamata (Delle
Heteranomia squamula (L.) Chiaje)
Fiatella arctica (L.) * Ophiothrix fragilis (Abildgaard)
POLYZOA VERTEBRATA
ECTOPROCTA PIsCES
Electra hastingsae Marcus Anguilla vulgaris Turton
Callopora aurita (Hincks) Blennius pholis L.
KENFIG
Kenfig was chosen as a collecting station in preference to
Porthcawl, although it was less easily reached, because of the
presence there of an interesting reef which is only exposed at
low tide. ‘This beach was visited once, in March 1950, with
a small party of Honours Students and also on other occasions
before and after the war.
The shore at Kenfig consists of a very fine sweep of sand which
slopes gently down to low water mark and which is exposed to
very heavy seas in rough weather. At Sker Point on the east
there is an impressive rocky promontory which is exposed to
very heavy weather. (It was here that the Mumbles Lifeboat
met its tragic fate.) Rich growths of algae are to be found in
the rock pools, and lobsters can be caught, with skill, from the
deep crevices in the sides of the pools. Moveable boulders are
rare and the rock is exceedingly hard, smooth, and lacking in
crevices. Collecting on Sker rocks is largely limited to fishing
the rock pools with nets, and scraping the overhanging rock
surfaces for sponges, polyzoa, ascidians, dorids, etc.
In places the rock was bored by large specimens of HMatella
arctica, which was recognised by the characteristic pink tips of
the siphons, but which could not be broken out of the rock. ‘To-
wards low water mark of spring tides there were very fine growths
of the reef sand-worm, Sabellaria alveolata. This species is convenient
for the conduction of artificial fertilisations in the laboratory, for
ripe specimens can be obtained at all seasons.
The sands are too greatly exposed to heavy seas to possess
anything but a greatly impoverished infauna, and no attempt
was made to collect from the sand.
The reef which is only exposed at low tide lies a fe
STUDIES ON THE BIOLOGY OF THE BRISTOL CHANNEL 221
yards to the west of Sker Point, and consists of a more friable
rock, with shallow pools, overhanging ledges and small crevices.
There are plenty of heavy boulders, which can just be turned
over. Algae are rare, and the reef is very bare in appearance,
but it proved to be a good collecting area.
Alcyonium digitatum is not common'y found intertidally (the
writer has only found this species intertidally at Bangor, North
Wales), but small colonies were common on the reef on the under
sides of overhanging ledges. Remarkably large specimens of
Nucella lapillus were found on the reef but not elsewhere. They
may presumably be identified as NV. lapillus var. major, which was
described by Jeffries (1867) as occurring in deep water in this
area. Other striking additions here were Octopus vulgaris, Ostrea
edulis (one specimen each) and Homarus vulgaris, Pilumnus hirtellus,
Ophiothrix fragilis, and Cratena glotensis which was common.
Altogether 24 species new to the northern shores of the Bristol
Channel (* in the accompanying list) have been recorded at
Kenfig, and of these the majority are new records for the Bristol
Channel as a whole. Anomia ephippium and Ostrea edulis have
been recorded from Blue Anchor, and Sycon sp., Alcyonium digitatum,
Bunodactis verrucosa, and Flustra papyracea from Ilfracombe (Bassin-
dale, 1941).
Judging by the fauna list, one would probably regard Kenfig
as a fully marine station. It is interesting to note that even at
this station the Laminarian zone is not colonised by large sea-
weeds, but chiefly by Sabellaria. ‘The environmental factor which
excludes Laminaria and Saccorhiza from this station, and from all
collecting stations further up the Bristol Channel, is not known.
Fauna List at Kenfig
PARAZOA Actinia equina L.
Halichondria panicea (Pallas) Sagartia elegans (Dalyell)
Chalina oculata (Pallas) * Metridium senile (L.)
Grantia compressa (Fabricius) * Bunodactis verrucosa (Pennant)
Hymeniacidon sanguinea (Grant)
* Terpios fugax Duchassaing & oN
‘ : POLYCHAETA
Michalotti
Lagisca extenuata (Grube)
*Sycon sp. *Sthenelais boa (Johnston)
CQ@LENTERATA Phyllodoce maculata (L.)
HypDROZOA Eulalia viridis (O. F. Miller)
Tubularia indiwisa L.
Hydrallmania falcata (L.)
Sertularia cupressina (L.)
Dynamena pumila (L.)
*Sertularia operculata L.
ANTHOZOA
Alcyonaria
* Alcyonium digitatum L.
Actiniaria
Tealia felina (L.)
Kefersteinia cirrata (Keferstein)
* Pterosyllis formosa Claparéde
Perinereis cultrifera (Grube)
Marphysa sanguinea (Montagu)
Polydora ciliata ( Johnston)
Arenicola marina L.
Sabellaria alveolata (L.)
Lanice conchilega (Pallas)
Terebella lapidaria L.
* Thelepus setosus (Quatrefages)
222
Potamilla reniformis (O. F. Miller)
Pomatoceros triqueter (L.)
ARCHIANNELIDA
Dinophilus sp.
GEPHYREA
Phascolosoma minutum Keferstein
ARTHROPODA
CRUSTACEA
Cirripedia
Balanus tmprovisus Darwin
B. balanoides (L.)
B. perforatus Bruguiére
B. crenatus Bruguiére
Chthamalus stellatus (Poli)
Malacostraca
Isopoda
Ligia oceanica (L.)
*Eurydice pulchra Leach
Amphipoda
*Caprella? hirsutum
Decapoda
Crangon vulgaris L.
* Homarus vulgaris Milne Edwards
Porcellana platycheles (Pennant)
P. longicornis (L.)
Eupagurus bernhardus (L.)
Carcinus maenas (Pennant)
Cancer pagurus L.
*Pilumnus hirtellus (L.)
PYCNOGONIDA
Nymphon ? gracile Leach
Pycnogonum littorale (Stroem)
* Ammothea echinata (Hodge)
INSECTA
Petrobius sp.
Lipura maritima Guérin
MOLLUSCA
PLACOPHORA
Lepidochiton cinereus (L.)
R. D. PURCHON
GASTROPODA
Patella vulgata L.
Gibbula cineraria (L.)
Osilinus lineatus (da Costa)
Littorina littoralis (L.)
L. neritoides (L.)
L. rudis (Maton)
L. littorea (L.)
Buccinum undatum L.
Ocenebra erinacea (L.)
Nucella lapillus (L.)
*N. lapillus var. major
*Cratena glotensis (Alder &
Hancock)
Ancula cristata (Alder)
Acanthodoris pilosa (Abildgaard)
LAMELLIBRANCHIA
* Anomia ephippium L.
Mytilus edulis L.
* Ostrea edulis L.
Paphia saxatilis (Fleurian)
Miatella arctica (L.)
CEPHALOPODA
* Octopus vulgaris Lamarck
POLYZOA
ECTOPROCTA
Electra hastingsae Marcus
E. pilosa (L.)
* Flustra foliacea (L.)
*F, papyracea Ellis & Solander
* Membranipora membranacea (L.)
Cryptosula pallasiana (Moll)
Crisia eburnea (L.)
ECHINODERMATA
* Asterias rubens L.
Ophiothrix fragilis (Abildgaard)
Amphipholis squamata (Delle
Chiaje)
* Psammechinus miliaris (Gmelin)
SUBLITTORAL FAUNA OF SWANSEA BAY
In September, 1948 the writer and Mr. G. D. Waugh visited
The Mumbles, Swansea, in order to carry out trawling and
dredging operations offshore with Mr. Garner, Coxswain of the
new Mumbles Lifeboat. Living expenses precluded a _ long
stay at the Mumbles and Mr. Garner’s duties with the Lifeboat
limited the time available for collecting.
The oyster grounds (Cock Beds, Roads Haul and White Oyster
Ledge) were found to be in a derelict condition. A very few old
oysters were collected, with their shells riddled by Cliona and
other boring organisms. No young oysters were found in any
dredge haul. Cole (1949) reported that it would not be practicable
to re-stock these beds.
STUDIES ON THE BIOLOGY OF THE BRISTOL CHANNEL 223
Trawl hauls were taken in various parts of Swansea Bay, and
a variety of bottom-living fish was obtained. In one haul, off
Port Talbot, the trawl was white with the Tectibranch Philine
aperta, and empty shells of Spzsula sp. were also taken in the net.
The great abundance of Philine in this area must do a great deal
of damage to the small bivalves which form the basic food of
some of the flatfish in this area.
The following list includes the more interesting of the species
recorded in Swansea Bay in September 1948. Fifteen of these
are new records for the Northern Shores of the Bristol Channel
(* in accompanying list).
PARAZOA ECHINODERMATA
*Cliona celata Grant OPHIUROIDEA
* Ophiura texturata Lamarck
ANNELIDA
POLYCHAETA, Errantia VERTEBRATA
* Nereis fucata Savigny PIscES
*Scyllium canicula (L.)
ARTHROPODA *Rhina squatina (L.)
CrusTAcEA, Decapoda * Raja clavata L.
*Portunus puber (L.) *Callionymus lyra L.
* Macropodia rostratus (L.) * Pleuronectes flesus L.
MOLLUSCA *P. platessa L.
GASTROPODA P. limanda L.
*Philine aperta (L.) * Rhombus laevis (Rondelet)
LAMELLIBRANCHIA *Solea vulgaris Quensel
Anomia ephippium L. * Trigla cuculus L.
Ostrea edulis L. Agonus cataphractus (L.)
MARROS
Marros, Carmarthenshire, is a very inaccessible beach a few
miles west of Pendine. This beach was not specially selected
as a collecting station, but the opportunity was taken to make
observations and a small collection, while the writer stayed in a
small cottage close to the shore in this region in the summers of
1945 and 1949.
Altogether 50 species have been recorded from the shore at
Marros and the rocky headlands of Talpin Point on the west
and Ragwen Point on the east. This must be a very small pro-
portion of the potential fauna between Pendine on the east and
Tenby on the west. Nevertheless some 15 of these are new
records for the northern shores of the Bristol Channel (* in the
accompanying list). Nine of these are new records for the whole
Bristol Channel.
The shores in the vicinity of Marros are notable for two associa-
tions :—the sandy shore, and the exposures of peat (submerged
forest of Amroth).
224 R. D. PURCHON
In the sand a variety of lamellibranchs are found, of which
the most conspicuous is Donax vittatus. The posterior end of the
shell commonly lies close to the surface of the sand, and its position
in the sand is marked by a large epiphytic growth of Laomedea
flexuosa. ‘This species of bivalve is a source of food to Herring
Gulls which are doubtless assisted in their search by the epiphytic
tufts. One can often obtain a good sample of living Donax by
disturbing the gulls after they have been feeding, when they may
disgorge several intact specimens as well as shell fragments from
their crops.
Typical sand dwelling carnivores such as the gastropods WNatica
and Actaeon, and the asteroid Astropecten are not uncommon,
and can best be found by examining disturbances in the surface
of the sand while the tide is beginning to rise. Nearly all the
specimens of Astropecten irregularis carried a commencal specimen
of the polychaet Acholoé astericola.
Between Marros and Amroth there are extensive exposures of
peat in which small branches are embedded. In places this
layer has been eroded to form pools which have a sand bottom,
are shallow on the landward side and quite deep on the seaward
side. The peat rims of these pools are undercut, and can be
broken away easily. ‘These rims are extensively bored by Barnea
candida and, more rarely, by B. parva. In the summer of 1949
Idotea linearis was very common in these pools. These made
themselves conspicuous by swimming quite strongly up to the
surface and then, arching the body and extending all the limbs,
sinking slowly out of sight again. The significance of the action
is not apparent.
Fauna List at Marros
PARAZOA * Owenia fusiformis (Delle Chiaje)
Halichondria panicea (Pallas ) Sabellaria alveolata (L.)
Arenicola marina L.
Te rR Lanice conchilega (Pallas)
* Laomedea flexuosa Hincks
Sertularia cupressina (L.) ARTHROPODA
ANTHOZOA CRUSTACEA
Actinia equina L. Cirripedia
Balanus balanoides (L.)
*Anemonia sulcata (Pennant) Chthamalus stellatus (Poli)
Tealia felina (L.)
CTENOPHORA * Lepas anatifera L.
Pleurobrachia pileus (O. F. Miller) Mereecce
LENE STEIN | : *Tanais cavolini Milne-Edwards
Lineus ? gesserensis O. F. Miller Sphaeroma serratum (Fabricius)
ANNELIDA Jaera marina (Fabricius)
POLYCHAETA Ligia oceanica (L.)
Eulalia viridis (O. F. Miller)
* Acholoé astericola (Delle Chiaje)
* Nephthys hombergi Lamarck
*Tdotea linearis (L.)
Amphipoda
Corophium volutator (Pallas)
STUDIES ON THE BIOLOGY OF THE BRISTOL CHANNEL 225
Decapoda
Leander serratus (Pennant)
Crangon vulgaris L.
Carcinus maenas (Pennant)
* Portumnus latipes (Pennant)
Cancer pagurus L.
INSECTA
Petrobius sp.
Lipura maritima Guérin
MOLLUSCA
PLACOPHORA
Lepidochiton cinereus (L.)
GASTROPODA
Patella vulgata L.
Gibbula umbilicalis (da Costa)
Osilinus lineatus (da Costa)
Littorina neritoides (L.)
Littorina rudis (Maton)
L. littorea (L.)
* Natica catena (da Costa)
Nucella lapillus (L.)
* Acteon tornatilis (L.)
LAMELLIBRANCHIA
Mytilus edulis L.
* Donax vittatus (da Costa)
* Mactra corallina (L.)
*Chione striatula (da Costa)
Paphia pullastra (Montagu)
Barnea parva (Pennant)
B. candida (L.)
POLYZOA
ECTOPROCTA
Cryptosula pallasiana (Moll)
ECHINODERMATA
ASTEROIDEA
* Astropecten irregularis (Pennant)
REFERENCE LIST
Bassindale, R. 1941. Studies on the Biology of the Bristol
Channel. No. 4. The Invertebrate fauna of the southern
shores of the Bristol Channel and Severn Estuary. Proc.
Bristol Nat. Soc. Ser. 4, vol. IX, pp. 143-201.
Bassindale, R. 1943. Studies on the Biology of the Bristol Channel.
No. 11. The physical environment and intertidal fauna of
the southern shores of the Bristol Channel and Severn Estuary.
Jj. Ecol. Vol. XXXI, pp. 1-29.
Cole, H. A. 1949. Report on the Swansea Bay—Mumbles
area oyster fishery. South Wales Sea Fisheries District
Committee.
Jeffries, J. G. 1867. British Conchology London.
Purchon, R. D. 1937. Studies on the Biology of the Bristol
Channel. No. 2. An Ecological study of the Beach and
the Dock at Portishead. Proc. Bristol Nat. Soc. Ser. 4, vol.
VIII, pt. III, pp. 311-329.
Purchon, R. D. 1947. Studieson the Biology of the Bristol Channel.
No.17. Thelittoraland sub-littoral fauna of the northern shores
near Cardifl, Proc. Bristol Nat. Soc. Ser. 4. Vol. XXVII,
pt. IV, pp. 285-310.
226 R. D. PURCHON
Rees, C. B. 1939. The plankton in the upper reaches of the
Bristol Channel. Journ. Mar. Biol. Assn. U.K. N.S., vol.
XXIII, pp. 397-425. |
Rees, C. B. 1940. Apreliminary study of the ecology of a Mud-Flat.
Journ. Mar. Biol. Assn. U.K., N.S., vol. XXIV, pp. 185-199.
Yonge, C. M. 1949. The Sea Shore Collins, London.
rie OALE FORT MARINE FAUNA
By R. BassinDALE and J. H. BARRETT
INTRODUCTION be
HE Field Centre was established at Dale Fort in Pembroke-
shire on the south-west tip of Wales in the summer of 1947...
A list of 153 species of seaweeds occurring in the area has alread¥.;
been published (Thomas, E. M., ‘‘A preliminary list of marine*
algae of south-west Pembrokeshire’, North Western Naturalist,
XXIV, Dec. 1953, 568-579). A preliminary typed list of the
Dale marine fauna is replaced by the present list which is itself
by no means complete. Much remains to be done and we hope
workers will be stimulated to fill in the gaps and to record their
finds in the Centre’s index.
Acknowledgments to the contributors of records from which |
the list is compiled are given at the head of the list. We should
like to express our thanks here to Miss Barbara Dresser for the
three figures drawn to our particular requirements, .and to the
Leverhulme Trustees for financial assistance in publication.
ACCOUNT OF THE AREA
‘TIDES 7
A good account of tides and waves is to be found in Pilkington
(The Ways of the Sea, Routledge and Kegan Paul, 1957).
The following tidal data for the Dale area, which are useful
to shore collectors, are expressed in feet and decimals of a foot
above “‘ chart datum’’. Only very exceptional tides ebb below
this level. ; :
Pembroke St. Ann’s
Level Abbreviation Dock Head
Feet above Feet above
_ chart datum chart datum .
Mean high water of spring tides .. MHWS 22°33 21°63
Mean high water of neap tides .. MHWN 16-97 16-47
Mean tide level Ae a ce MIT Is 12°20 12°20
Mean low water of neap tides .. MLWN 7°54 7°54
Mean low water of spring tides .. MLWS 1-89 1-69
In Milford Haven, therefore, the lowest tides ever experienced
(LWEST) go down to a little below zero (chart datum) but on~
the average spring tide low water is nearly two feet above this.
Under normal conditions in this area, the range of a spring tide
is nearly 20 feet, and of a neap tide nearly g feet.
R. BASSINDALE AND J. H. BARRETT
228
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"727 por
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ZA MOB OE
THE DALE FORT MARINE FAUNA 229
It is a feature of the tidal cycle that at any particular place,
tides of a given range usually occur about the same time of day,
thus at Dale low water at spring tides occurs at about 1.30 a.m.
and 1.30 p.m. (G.M.T.) i.e. good collecting tides occur about
_ mid-day: whereas neap tide low waters are at about 7.0 a.m.
and 7.0 p.m, and the high tide covers the shore at mid-day.
_ Superimposed on the normal, predictable tide levels is a varia-
tion due to wind. This effect is particularly noticeable in places
like Milford Haven. A ‘ following’ wind—a south westerly—
blowing strongly on the flood tide, may cause the actual tide to
_ rise in the Haven by as much as 2 feet above the predicted level
_ and the same wind will hold the water in the Haven and prevent
it ebbing to the predicted low level. Conversely a north east gale
will help the water out of the Haven and cause it to ebb lower
_ than the predicted level and thus to expose more shore than
expected. It may also affect the actual time of the turn of tide
_ by minutes or even by half an hour.
THe CLIMATE
The parish of Dale is at the extreme tip of the SW peninsula
of Wales, and is almost surrounded by the sea. Inevitably its
westerly situation and the shape of the coast combine to moderate
both winter and summer temperatures and to maintain a high
_ relative humidity. The parish is too far west for the rainfall
to be influenced by the Welsh uplands ; the intersection of the
Bristol and St. George’s Channels is one of the windiest areas in
Britain. The profound effect of wind on the vegetation is clearly
marked. ‘The exposed Atlantic cliffs show considerable differ-
ences from the sheltered slopes at the edge of Milford Haven.
Temperature
che eM eA eM yy. Ay OS) (Oo asNe
aca St. Ann’s 47 46 48 51 55 61 63 63 60 56 51 48
1921-35
Dale Fort 49 45 48 52 57 62 65 65 62 58 51 49
1950-56
Mean min. St. Ann’s 42°" 40 40. 42 47 «51,55 55-753 49 45 43)
F, 1921-35
Dale Fort 39 36 40 42 47 52 55 56 54 49 45 43
1950-56
Rainfall
Av. fall St. Ann’s
inmms. 1881-1915 84 70 66 48 48 51 63 79 69 107 96 114.
Dale Fort
1950-56 7-09-6445. 53. 55, (48) 79) 73 «63 85 93:
Relative Humidity
AV Ye Dale Fort
1950-56 87 84 85 82 82 84 82 85 83 84 85 85,
230 R. BASSINDALE AND J. H. BARRETT
tol Ch
te Frequency of gales
requency of winds
AGO - 1956
Frenchmans Y)
4
Bay gy Watweck
Bay pypee
North ma GPS estivich Point
S muiae
oS |
Watwick Ba
x South J
Vomit \ .
Beach YY Fly
Pri Bay Seapieys 5
oe rl Beach. SAS 2 a5
at S m=, (" Blockhouse
wom a DS, CHEAT Xe aK Pownt
a x C
f] dd Swallow
: Hole
St. Anns Head 2 z)
+ ete ° % x % p
Scale in Miles.
Fic. 2. Map or THE DALE PENINSULA SHOWING THE NAMED COLLECTING BEACHES
THE DALE FORT MARINE FAUNA 231
Sunshine
eae NR ee NIC AN ONG, Palen i Ag eS OF Ni TD
Hrs. /day St. Ann’s Ie e2cOM Asian 7 MOA ye 2 O°) hogy Aeg Boh 2eo0 per
% Of poss. 1906-35 20.27 35 41 41 44 41 39 38 29 25 I9
fars./day . “Dale Fort 2-1 3:6 5-2 6-7 7°8 6-5 6:7 6:4 5°5 3°3 2°3 1°6
% Of poss. 1952-56 26 37 44°48 50 38 42 44 44 31 27 21
Wind
Av. no. of gales
1876-1915
St. George’s Ch. 4:6°3°6 3°4. 11-4 0°S -0*4) 074) 1-0 175 3°5 4°5 5°3
Bristol Ch. Feedage 3082-00 O-O) O17 lOrga liye 2k Anan 5.2008
% frequency in year from N NE E SE S SW.W NW calm
St. Ann’s 1935-43 LOM ti wero 9 Qo) §h5e ) 18), 16 2
Dale Fort 1950-56 1 8 9.) 10) 25 Fi in dis 3
Bristol Ch. gales
1876-1915 BSE Be Ae 9 Qo B24 BB Eh
Diagrams of the direction of the wind at Dale and of gales in the Bristol
Channel are presented on Fig. 2.
Garland Stone
CY
The Table
gd
The Spit SKOMER /SLANOD
Pigstone Bay,
Pig Stony
Skomer Head
aw Stone
SKOKHOLM
ont ISLAND
wildgoo?
t
Scale of Miles
Fic. 3. Map or SKOKHOLM AND SKOMER ISLANDS
232 R. BASSINDALE AND J. H. BARRETT
THE GEOLOGY OF THE COLLECTING AREA
The beautiful coastline of Pembrokeshire is entirely of the
older rocks. Much of the geology is extremely complicated ;
some has not yet been adequately described.
The parish of Dale is almost entirely of the Red Marls of the
Lower Old Red Sandstone. ‘The peninsula south of the valley
in which the village is sited is a large syncline with the axis pitch-
ing from the Short Point through Watwick Bay eastwards across
the harbour to West Angle Bay. At West Dale and Dale Point
the dip is 40° and between 50° and 60° to the south respectively ;
by the Vomit and in Mill Bay it is 48° NNW and 80° NNE re-
spectively. On the north side of Watwick Bay it is 30° to the SE
and on the south side of the bay it is 55° to the NNE.
Reappearing in West Angle Bay the axis of the syncline runs
ESE in Carboniferous Limestone, with the Upper Old Red
Sandstone dipping into the valley from either side.
The Dale valley is probably based on a large fault of the Ritec
system. Its line continues the length of Milford Haven. The
valley is floored by superficial deposits of boulder clay and head
associated with the retreat stage of the Irish Sea Ice (Groom, G. E.,
The Development of the Dale Valley. Field Studies Council Annual
Report, 1955-56). Southerly-hading faults, with wide shatter belts,
are visible in the cliff sections for some distance on either side of
West Dale Bay.
The Red Marls continue northwards, dipping 45° SSE, to the
conformable junction with the Ludlow Sandstones of the Silurian
which runs eastwards from Red Cliff to the Pickleridge limekiln.
Across the Gann, except for Lindsway Bay, the Red Marls make
up the north coast of the Haven for several miles ; the section
Musselwick Point—Monk Haven—Watch House Point cliffs
dips 55° SSE. Still further east, on either side of Sandy Haven,
multiple folding produces rapid changes of dip, although the
strike continues roughly east and west. In Lindsway Bay the
faulted complications of the local Silurian geology repeat the
main features of Marloes Sands.
The Silurian cliffs of Marloes Sands show exposures of the
Ludlow Sandstone, the Wenlock Coralliferous Limestone and the
Upper Llandovery Conglomerates. These three series are
divided by block faults which bring the various horizons into the
same cliff sections. Angles of dip and strike change rapidly ;
varying hardnesses of contiguous horizons and the weakening of
the rock structure by repeated folding and faulting has led to
much irregularity in the rate of erosion, parts of the beach are
of sand and shingle while other parts are of rock debris some of
which rests directly on the wave-cut platform amongst stacks of
a great range of shape and size.
THE DALE FORT MARINE FAUNA 233
Gateholm is the largest stack and protects the west flank of the
bay. With the tip of the Horse’s Neck on the mainland opposite,
and like the Red Cliff on the eastern side of the bay, Gateholm
is of Red Marls. From the Horse’s Neck westwards, past the
Rainy Rock to Deadman’s Bay the cliff section is uniformly of
massive Ludlow Sandstone, dipping 20°-45° SE. Further north-
west the prolongation of the peninsula into the Deer Park and
Wooltack Point is based on a narrow outcrop of Ordovician
Volcanics of Arenig age (the Skomer Volcanic Series), of varying
hardness and much faulted, producing continually differing
coastal forms.
The northern coast of the Marloes peninsula runs east from
Martin’s Haven as a series of small rifts in the Ordovician Vol-
canics; at Musselwick Sands black Ordovician shales contrast
with the Old Red Sandstone which carries the cliff on to Mill
Haven, dipping inland all the way, small faults producing small
inlets. A large intrusion of Pre-Cambrian dolerite separates
Mill Bay from the Coal Measures of Little Haven and the whole
base of St. Bride’s Bay.
The complex pattern of the mainland structures is reflected in
the off-shore islands. Skokholm is wholly of the Lower Old Red
Sandstone, dipping to the south, except along its south coast
where the dip is to about 70° to the north. Middlebolm and
Skomer are of Arenig lava flows (Skomer Volcanic Series) inter-
bedded with some contemporary sediments. The islands dip
about 20° slightly east of south ; multiple faulting and differential
erosion produces an irregular coast. Grassholm and The Smalls
continue the Ordovician volcanics seawards.
The dominant feature of the whole topography is the 200 ft.
erosion surface into which the drainage system is deeply incised.
The. cliffs are mostly almost vertical, and, outside St. Ann’s Hd.,
only in bays is their foot readily accessible. Elsewhere fallen
masses of rock lie amongst stacks in all stages of erosion down
to the wave-cut platform which in some places is visible at low
tide. Where it can be reached, e.g. on either side of West Dale
and round Gateholm, this combination of beach material gives
rich collecting. In the bays sand collects below a storm beach
of shingle and only a small range of plants and animals survive.
Where the tide never leaves the foot of the cliff, e.g. Wooltack
Point and the islands, the surfaces are poorly populated but crack
and crevice fauna is abundant.
Within St. Ann’s Hd. the waters of Milford Haven are more
or less sheltered from the prevailing winds and the cliffs tend to
be less steep, with their foot more easily reached. Boulders of
smaller size are left undisturbed by wave action. A wide range
of plants and animals are to be found, particularly in Swallow
234 R. BASSINDALE AND J. H. BARRETT
Hole, Gunkel and round the north-east corner of Great Castle
Head. :
The head of Dale Roads dries out at low water springs. The
line of the Dale valley continues eastwards as a sandy substrate
with some mud admixed. In contrast the Gann stream flows
to the sea across a muddy-gravelly flat. ‘These two habitats are
very rich in burrowing forms and complement each other. The
Gann stream completes all the gradations from fresh to salt in
the mile and a half above its mouth, where it runs through a
typical saltmarsh.
Little is known of the sub-littoral zone. Within Dale Roads
the bottom is largely sandy, with increasing mud towards the
south and stones to the north. Off Lindsway and off Stack
Fort more small stones and clinker must litter the bottom.
The Thorn and Chapel Rocks prevent dredging in the entrance
to the harbour. |
Outside St. Ann’s what is known has been gleaned from lobster
fishermen and the chart rather than by dredging. The bottom
between the islands and the coast is of clean sand amongst which
isolated and small groups of rocks occur.
Thus, from the collector’s point of view, there is a wide selection
of storm washed steep rocky shores with a limited fauna, except
in crevices and amongst boulders, while in sheltered areas such
as the rocky shores from Dale Point to Dale village and the Gann
Stones there is an excellent fauna of typical rock shore forms.
The clean (and storm washed) sand beaches of Marloes Sands,
West Dale Bay and Castle Beach carry few animals but in shel-
tered places where sand or shingle is mixed with mud, as at Dale
Beach, the Gann Flats and parts of Angle Bay, there are extensive
beds with numerous burrowing worms and lamellibranchs, and
in Angle Bay (but not in Dale Bay) there are flats of soft mud
inhabited by the more limited fauna of such situations.
THE: FAUNA LTS &
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS AND EXPLANATION
The list of species has been compiled from the card index made
by both permanent and temporary workers at the Field Centre.
The following alphabetical list gives the initials, by which records
in the list of species are acknowledged, the full names of the
recorders, to whom our thanks are due, and the number of records
they have made. Special mention should be made of the contri-
bution of Professor R. D. Purchon who made the initial survey
of the fauna and founded the card index.
THE DALE FORT MARINE FAUNA
2390
LIST OF RECORDERS AND THE INITIALS BY WHICH THEY ARE
Initials
A.D.
AE.G.P.
AFB.
AKC:
A.W.L.
B.LR.
B.K.W.
B.T.H.
C.E.D.
C.J.D.
CRT
C.M.
ACKNOWLEDGED
Name No. of records
Mrs. Angela Davis a a ai a 96
Mr. Alan E. G. Pearson I
Mr. A. F. Baldry 2
Mr. A. K. Cadbury I
Mr. A. W. Lloyd I
Dr. B. I. Roots a she se ee 5
Miss B. K. Whittaker .. ae ae at ne
Mr. B. T. Hepper Ei, Bs 2, ae 15
Mr. C. E. Dyte oe ay a ee 6
Mr. C. J. Duncan +e BA oe x 4
Mr. C. R. Thorne oe Bae a ete 13
Miss C. Mason .. er ce ae a 28
Mr. C. Ghomas .. oe ate ae - 18
Dr. D. W. Snow ae a a at 57
Brigadier E. A. Glennie .. ae ‘2 £2 I
Miss E. D. Eagle i a re as I
Mr. E. C. Judges Bs ee by: ae 20
Dr. E. M. Shepherd Se ae Es A 31
Miss E. M. Thomas me ae ae ey 44
Mr. G. B. Evans .. es ne oe ae I
Mr. G. C. Bolster Me Be f: ae I
Dr. G. D. Waugh a He ch a I
Mr. G. E. Barnes. . ae ae a ae 2
MrG. Owen. . «'. is ic: a iy a2
Mr. G. T. Jefferson a ae Ay < 50
Dr H. A. Cole : a ye a
Mr. H. Bowen .. a Ay ve sie 9
Miss H. Horder .. ae Ss Re ae 2
Mr. H. Joules S
Professor H. P. Moon .. He sd ae 100
Mr. H. J. M. Bowen and Miss U. H. Williams 53
Mr. I. L. Owen .. cs oe me a I
Mr. J. Green Ry, aes Bs oe ah 38
Miss J. G. Barker if ae oi ui I
Wir: J: Hi. Barrett. . ue a as ie 429
Mr. J. Moyse oe ei. aA ye ss 30
Mri J. Pierson... ee cee Be ashes II
Mr. J. S. Cormack te ie ae aye 5
Mr. K. Dyke a an a Pon See te I
Mr. K. G. Messenger... Bes a Me 19
Untraced ay ae ne a 30
Dr. M. B. G. G. Haas
Miss M. E. Bytheway ..
Mr. M. H. Williamson ..
Miss M. Roper
mm ON
236 R. BASSINDALE AND J. H. BARRETT
Initials Name No. of records
M.R.Y. Dr. M. R. Young As he at is 112
M.W. Mr. M. Walpole .. AY a sag we 5
N.A.H. Dr. N. A. Holme Bs a 2y a 15
N.C. Mr. N. Condor .. ae ae 1s Me I
N.N.G.B. Mr. N. N. G. Bell at oe x ce I
N.W.M. Dr. N. W. Moore a a le ai 194
O.R.B. Dr. O. R. Barclay 13
PA: Miss P. Adams ee I
P.C.C.C. Mr. P. C. C. Chapman I
P.di B. Mr. P. di Brent 5
P.D. Mr. P. Davis I
P.S. Mr. P. Seddon I
Led Op Mr. P. J. Conder 3
BS:C: Mrs. P. S. Crafter I
R.C. Mr. R. Clarke I
R.D.P. Professor R. D. Purghoues 587
R.F.N. Dr. R. F. Nash 2
R.G. Mr. R. Goodier .. 4
R.H.B. Mr. R. H. Baird .. I
R.H. Mr. R. Harkness 167
R.R. Mr. R. Ralphs I
T.B. Mr. T. Bagenal I
U.B. University of Bristol (Parties ied’ by Dr. N. W.
Moore and Mr. R. Bassindale) .. 347
U.C.L. University College, Leicester (Parties led by
Professor H. P. Moon, Miss Moody Miss
G. C. Evans) ; 126
U.C.W. University College of Tales Cardiff (oe
led by Dr. E. M. Shepherd, Dr. Rov!
Purchon and Mr. G. T. Jefferson) : 19
U.M.G. Miss U. M. Grigg a us oe 3
V.B. Miss V. Barnes .. is ae ig ae 2
W.A.L.E. Mr. W. A. L. Evans I
W.J. Mr. W. Jones I
The names of animals in the list are those used in the new
1957 edition of the Plymouth Marine Fauna, which was consulted
prior to its publication with the courteous permission of the
Director of the Marine Biological Association and with the helpful
assistance of Dr. D. P. Wilson. Thus, in the present list, no
reference is given to the original diagnostic description of a species
where it is given in the Plymouth list. In a few cases, a Dale
species is not recorded at Plymouth, and the full reference is
cited here.
Common names of animals and of groups have been added
where these are known and in addition page references are given
to the few selected works, listed below, which have a_ brief
THE DALE FORT MARINE FAUNA 237
description or an illustration of the species. The references
are made by means of the initial letter given :—
BY —Barrett, John H. and C. M. Yonge. Guide to the Seashore.
In the press. (References under BY are to Plates—pages
not yet known.)
C=Colman, J. S. The sea and its mysteries. Bell & Sons, London,
1950.
DW =Wilson, D. P. Life of the shore and shallow Sea. Nicholson &
Watson, London 1935.
E=Eales, N. B. The littoral fauna of Great Britain. Cambridge
University Press. 1939.
H=Hardy, A. C. The open sea. The world of plankton. Collins.
London 1956.
RY =Russell, F.S. and C. M. Yonge. The Seas. Warne. London
1936.
TJ=Travis, Jenkins J. The fishes of the British Isles. Warne.
W rne. London 1942.
W=Wilson, D. P. They live in the sea. Collins. London 1947.
Y=Yonge, C. M. The Sea Shore. Collins. London 1949.
Of these books, Eales is almost a sine qua non for the beginner
although there are other works, for example, by Newbiggin, M.
(Life by the seashore, revised by R. Elmhurst, Allen & Unwin,
London 1931) which has a similar scope; and by Street, P.
(Between the tides, U.L.P. London, 1952) which is a good simple
account, well illustrated, but without the keys and systematic
details to be found in Eales. The forthcoming Guide to the Seashore
by John H. Barrett and C. M. Yonge is a very well illustrated
and will deal with plants and animals of the shore and be useful
particularly to beginners.
Colman’s book is best described as a primer in oceanography
but for the seashore collector it contains, in addition to the illus-
trations referred to in the present list, a good general account
of the plant and animal plankton (chaps. 4.and 5) and, still more
appropriate, a very useful and brief presentation of life between
tide marks (chap. 8).
Wilson’s two books are full of good photographs of seashore
animals ; this often leads one to overlook the text which is authori-
tative and comprehensive.
238 R. BASSINDALE AND J. H. BARRETT
In The Open Sea by Hardy is a stimulating account of the
plankton, an aspect of life in the sea which is often ignored
by shore collectors but for the study of which the Field Centre
provides facilities. :
The Seas, by Russell and Yonge, considers all aspects of marine
life including commercial fisheries and contains much _ useful
information clearly presented and well illustrated. Yonge’s
Sea Shore has, as its title suggests, a more limited scope but, in
addition to being well illustrated, is far and away the best account
of the natural history of the shore.
There is only one single volumed work on the fishes of the
British Isles and Travis Jenkins’ book will provide the beginners
requirements in this field.
In the following list, if a species has been recorded only a few
times the details of its occurrence are given together with the
initials of the recorders. Where, however, the species is fairly
common the records are summarised, the individual records and
recorders are not cited, and the only acknowledgment is that
made in the list of recorders given above. The data, where
available, are given in the following order :—Localities ; Habitat ;
Abundance ; Season ; Breeding.
In addition, some notes of the biology of the species is added
from the literature where this will increase the value of the list.
The localities cited are of intertidal records on the ‘ home’
grounds given in order from Musselwick to Dale Point and thence
to West Dale Bay (Fig. 2): ‘outside’ records are then added
in a less regular order followed by sublittoral records (Fig. 1).
Records for Skokholm and Skomer are listed after the names
of these islands (Fig. 3).
The three maps show most of the collecting grounds named
in the list and in the Dale Peninsula (Fig. 2) we have divided
the coastline into named ‘ beaches ’ in the hope that future records
will be referred to these localities. The extensive Gann Flats
has been divided by ‘ sight lines ’, easily recognisable on the shore,
so that easier reference may be made to the four areas. Dale
Sands and Dale Roads have also been delimited by similar arbi-
trary sight lines. |
There are two ‘ Great Castle Heads ’—one at West Dale and
one at Sandy Haven. It is proposed to call the former ‘ Great
Castle Head’ and the latter ‘ Great Castle Head, S.H.’. Watch
House Point (at Lindsway Bay) is sometimes called ‘ Soldier’s
Rock’ and should not be confused with Blockhouse (or West
Blockhouse) Point on the Dale Peninsula.
THE DALE FORT MARINE FAUNA 239
Bee Ne AY Ie iio
Phylum PROTOZOA
Protozoa are numerous in all marine habitats and occur as.
free-swimming, creeping or attached forms. On account of their
small size they are usually overlooked by collectors and indeed,
their study requires special techniques and collecting methods.
A brief account of the group will be found in Eales (pp. 13, 17
and 18) and there is more information in Johnstone, Scott and
Chadwick (The Marine Plankton, Hodder and Stoughton, 1934),
and in Hardy’s book. ‘The few species listed here serve merely
as a reminder of the many not recorded.
(Similar remarks might be made concerning the bacteria which
play at least as important a part in the sea as on land or in fresh
water : but their study involves the collector in even more detailed
and complex techniques.)
NocTILUCA SCINTILLANS Macartney (H 48; RY 187)
Plankton, Dale, 13.8.50, (EMT) ; 27.9.50, (EMS). SKokHoLm
—North Haven, abundant, 7.7.49, (CM).
CERATIUM FURCA (Ehrenberg) (H 80)
Plankton, 25.9.50, (EMS).
CERATIUM Fusus (Ehrenberg)
Plankton, 25.9.50, (EMS).
CeRATIUM TRIpOos O. F. M Iler (RY 110, 124; H 48, 80)
Plankton, common, 25.9.50, (EMS).
HAPLOSPORIDIUM CHITONIS (Lankester)
Parasite in Lepidochitona cinereus, Black Rocks, Sept. 1948,
(UCL).
HALIPHYSEMA TUMANOWICzII Bowerbank
SKOKHOLM—Little Bay, 14 and 16.8.50, (RH).
Phylum PORIFERA Sponges (E 13, 19, 21)
The sponge body is usually an irregular mass of tissue spread
out on a solid substratum. ‘The tissue is permeated by a system
of canals into which water is drawn through minute pores all
over the surface. The water leaves by large visible pores dotted.
about on the surface and frequently raised on a volcano-like
prominence. Organic food particles are extracted from the current
within the sponge. The system is easily clogged and sponges are
usually intolerant of muddy conditions. The tissue is supported
by needle-like spicules of calcareous or siliceous material, or by
horny filaments often welded together into a complex scaffolding.
240 R. BASSINDALE AND J. H. BARRETT
While often of a dull colour some sponges contain bright pig-
ments and colours vary from pure white through yellows and
browns to bright reds. One species is bright blue. Some species
are regular in shape but most are not so. Some are always of
one colour but many vary considerably so that shape and colour
are only occasionally of value in identification.
Class CALCAREA. Calcareous sponges
Homocoelide (E 23 as Leucosoleniide)
LEUCOSOLENIA sp. (E 23; W 13)
Unidentified species of the genus have been seen at Musselwick,
Point Wood Beach, Castle Beach, at South Haven on Skokholm
and at the Basin on Skomer.
Sycettidz
SYCON CILIATUM (Fabricius) = S. coronatum (E24; W113;
BY Plate 1)
Musselwick Point, Point Wood Beach, Castle Beach, Martin’s
Haven, Angle Bay, dredged in Dale Roads. L.W.M. and below.
March, April, July, August and September.
Grantiide
GRANTIA COMPRESSA (Fabricius) Purse sponge (E24; W 10;
BY. Plate 71)
Musselwick Point, rare ; Point Wood Beach; Castle Beach,
common ; Gunkel; Great Castle Head, common; Gateholm ;
Angle Bay. SkoHotm—Peters Bay, abundant; Crab Bay,
frequent; North Haven, frequent. SkOoMER—South Haven.
March, April, May, September. In crevices and under boulders
below H.W.N.T.
LEUCONIA IMPRESSA (Hanitock) (E 25)
Gateholm, 1949, (RDP).
Class DEMOSPONGIARIA. Siliceous and horny sponges
Oscarellide
OscARELLA LOBULARIS (O. Schmidt) (E 29)
Musselwick, (RDP); Black Rocks, Common L.W.S.T., as
shiny khaki spots on polyzoa and algae, or as larger toffee-coloured
areas with irregular and not raised oscula, 31.10.51, (JHB).
Geodiide
PACHYMATISMA JOHNsTONI (Bowerbank) Elephant hide sponge
(E 28; BY Plate 1)
THE DALE FORT MARINE FAUNA 241
Castle Beach, Great Castle Bay, Lindsway Bay, Gateholm.
SkokHoLmM—-South Haven, Peters Bay, Crab Bay. SkomEer.—The
Basin, South Haven, Mew Stone, Matthew’s Wick. March,
April, August. Near L.W.M. Dark purplish-grey in light,
and white in the dark. Often large.
Clavulidz
POLYMASTIA MAMMILLARIS (O. F. Miiller) (E 28)
Great Castle Bay, below M.T.L., 4.4.50, (NWM).
POLYMASTIA AGGLUTINANS Ridley and Dendy
Black Rock, common, L.W.S.T., 31.10.51, (JHB).
SUBERITES DOMUNCULA (Olivi) (=Ficulina ficus (L.) (E 26; Y 93)
Black Rocks, Brig Stones, Point Wood Beach and Angle Bay.
Common on shells inhabited by hermit-crabs. L.W.S.T. Yellow
and orange. March and October.
SUBERITES CARNOsUS (Johnston)
Dale Sands, (RDP).
TERPIOS FUGAX Duchassaing and Michelotti. Blue sponge (E 26)
Musselwick Point, Gann Stones, Point Wood Beach, Slip Pier
Beach, Dale Fort Beach, Castle Beach, Martin’s Haven. Not
common under boulders, L.W.S.T. March, April, August,
September.
CLIONA CELATA Grant Boring sponge (E 25; W 51; DW Frontis-
piece; RY 147)
Musselwick Point, Point Wood Beach ; dredged off Musselwick
Point and in Dale Roads. Under boulders and in oyster shells.
March, August, September.
Astraxinellidz
STELLIGERA STUPOSA (Montagu)
Gateholm, (RDP).
Axinellide
HYMENIACIDON PERLEVIS (Montagu) (=H. sanguinea) (E 27;
Y Plate 25b, p. 144, wrongly labelled ; BY Plate 1)
Musselwick Point, Black Rocks, Point Wood Beach, Slip Pier
Beach, Dale Fort Beach, Dale Point, Gateholm, Angle Bay.
SKOKHOLM—Peter’s Bay, Crab Bay, North Haven. SkomMEer.—
South Haven, Mewstone. Occasional to abundant. March,
April, August to November. Pale olive, green, yellow, pale
orange, orange, red, brown. Oscula sometimes obvious, some-
times not. At Black Rocks growing in the sand.
F
242 R. BASSINDALE AND J. H. BARRETT
ADOCIA CINEREA (Grant) (E 27) _
Dale Fort Beach, 28.3.53, (MRY): Dale Point, one in deep
cleft, L.W.S.T., pink-brown with regular, prominent oscula,
(det. M. Burton), (JHB).
Halisarcide
HALISARCA DUJARDINI Johnston (E 29)
Black Rocks, common, L.W.S.T., flat, dark toffee coloured
with irregular oscula, (det. M. Burton), (JHB).
Spongiide
DysIDEA FRAGILIS (Montagu) (E 29)
Castle Beach, occasional, L.W.S.T., 11.4.49, (RDP): Black
Rocks, common, L.W.S.T., embedded in muddy sand, of a dark
toffee colour, shapeless and without visible oscula, 31.10.51,
(det. M. Burton), (JHB).
Haploscleride
HALICLONA MACANDREWI (Bowerbank)
Slip Pier Beach, (RDP).
Desmacidonidz
BIEMA VARIANTIA (Bowerbank)
Castle Beach, (RDP). |
AMPHILECTUS FUCORUM (Esper.)
Dale Point, L.W.S.T., in holdfasts of Laminaria on exposed
rocks, 1.11.51, (det. M. Burton), (JHB).
MYCALE CONTARENI (Martens)
Castle Beach, (RDP).
MyYxXILLA INCRUSTANS (Johnston) (E 28; BY Plate 1)
Musselwick, Dale Point, Castle Beach, Gateholm. SKOKHOLM
—South Haven. Common at Dale Point, 1.11.51, on exposed
faces, as thick cushiony straw-yellow colonies with regular oscula
(JHB).
MyxILLA ROSACEA (Lieberkiihn)
Dale Point, 1.11.51, L.W.S.T., common as flat, orange masses
without visible oscula and abundant as very close textured cushions
of a brick-red to dry-blood colour, (det. M. Burton), (JHB).
MicROCIONA ATRASANGUINEA Bowerbank (E 28)
Black Rocks, L.W.S.T., occasional as very thin orange-blood
red layers of gritty consistency, no oscula visible, 31.10.51 ;
Dale Point, L.W.S.T., common as scarlet rings around groups of
Balanus, tending to grow over shells, 1.11.51, (det. M. Burton),
(JHB).
THE DALE FORT MARINE FAUNA 243
OPHLITASPONGIA SERIATA (Grant) (E27; BY Plate 1)
Dale Point, Castle Beach. SkoxkHoLmM—South Haven. Com-
mon, L.W.S.T. At Dale Point, thin encrusting growths of a
brick red (almost dried blood) colour, with obvious, well-spaced,
upraised oscula, (JHB).
HALICHONDRIA PANICEA (Pallas) Bread crumb sponge (E 26;
W 10; Y 245 (wrongly labelled) ; RY 29; BY Plate 1)
Widespread and abundant, all beaches and seasons.
HALICHRONDRIA BOWERBANKI Burton |
Dale Point, L.W.S.T., abundant on overhangs as small thin
straw-coloured or yellow fingers hanging from growths of Myxzlla
incrustans, (JHB).
Phylum COELENTERATA (E 13, 31, 36)
The coelenterates are characterised by the possession of nema-
tocysts which are used to kill or entangle small living animals
for use as food. Ciliary mechanisms are sometimes used to
transfer these small organisms to the mouth but tentacles are more
usually employed.
Class HYDROZOA (E 31 and 36)
Order HYDROIDA (Meduse H 96 onwards)
Hydroids are not a prominent feature of the Dale intertidal
zone because much of the shore is too exposed and the sheltered
shores (as in Dale Bay) somewhat muddy. Nevertheless careful
search reveals quite a variety of species tucked away in sheltered
corners and the sub-littoral supplies good growths of the usual
deep water species.
Sub-Order ANTHOMEDUS (=Athecata in part) (E 37;
meduse W 19; H 49)
Tubulariide (E 38; W 16; Y 137)
TUBULARIA INDIvIsA L. Oaten pipes hydroid (BY Plate 2)
Common on Skokholm and Skomer.
Corynide
CorYNE muscorpEs (L.) (E38; BY Plate 1)
Musselwick, L.W.M., 16.6.50, (JHB).
CoryneE PusILLA Gaertner
SkokHoM—Little Bay, Hog Bay and South Haven, August
1950, (RH).
244 R. BASSINDALE AND J. H. BARRETT
Clavide Club head hydroids
CLAVA CORNEA (T. S. Wright)
On Fucus serratus, L.W.N.T., 10.4.49, (RDP).
CLAVA LEPTOSTYLA (Agassiz)
Musselwick, one colony, 10.6.49, (JHB).
CLAVA MULTICORNIS (Forskal) (E37; BY Plate 3; for related
spp. W15; Y 136; BY Plate 2)
Gann Stones, (RDP): SkoxHotm—Peter’s Bay, rare, 21.7.55,
({KST).
Hydractinide
HyYDRACTINEA ECHINATA (Fleming) (Y 157, BY Plate 2)
Lives on shells inhabited by hermit crabs. Black Rocks,
L.W.S.T., 28.3.48, (RDP) : Gann Flats, 6.3.50; but none on
9.4.51, (JHB): dredged, 28.7.49, (GO) : Angle Bay, April 1953,
(UB).
Eudendriidz
EUDENDRIUM RAMOSUM (L..)
SKOKHOLM—On lobster pots from Mr. F. Sturley. Up to
13 inches long, 26.6.50, (JHB).
EUDENDRIUM CAPILLARE Alder
SKOKHOLM—Little Bay, on Tubularia indivisa, 16.8.50, (RH).
Sub-Order THECATA (=Calyptoblastea, E 39 ; meduse, H 96)
Campanulariide (E 39)
CAMPANULARIA VOLUBILIS (L.)
SKOKHOLM—North and South Havens, Peter’s Bay, August
1950, on Sertularia cupressina and Plumularia setacea, (RH).
C/AMPANULARIA HINCKsI Alder
SKOKHOLM—North Haven on Halecium and Halopteris, 12.8.50,
(RH).
CLYTIA JOHNSTONI (Alder)
SKOKHOLM—North and South Havens, Little Bay, on Tubulana
indivisa, Scrupocellaria reptans and Laminaria holdfasts, August 1950,
(RH).
OBELIA DICHOTOMA (L.) (E 39)
Musselwick, covering fruiting bodies of Fucus, washed ashore,
medusz being released, 30.6.50, (JHB): Slip Pier Beach, a little
in high rock pools, 23.3.48, (RDP): Dale Roads, enormous
quantities on Chorda filum, trawled, 12.9.50, (JHB).
THE DALE FORT MARINE FAUNA 245
OBELIA GENICULATA (L.) (E39; BY Plate 1)
Gann Flats, March 1949, (NWM). SxoxHotm—On Laminaria
digitata, abundant, releasing meduse, 13.8.50, (RH): Crab
Bay, 23.4.52, (KCM).
OBELIA FLABELLATA Hincks (Hincks, p. 157)
Gann Glats, abundant, ripe, on Fucus serratus, 8.9.49, (RDP).
LAOMEDIA FLEXUOSA Hincks (E 40)
Gann Flats, March 1949, (NWM). SxkokHoLtm—South Haven,
fertile, 18.8.50, (RH).
RETICULARIA (FILELLUM) SERPENS (Hassall)
SKOKHOLM—North Haven, on Sertularia cupressina and var.
argentea, 16.8.50, (RH).
Lovenellide
CALYCELLA SYRINGA (L.)
SKOKHOLM—North Haven, rare, August 1950, (RH).
Phialellide
OPERCULARELLA LACERTA (Johnston)
SKOKHOLM—Little Bay, North Haven, rare, August 1950, (RH).
Haleciide
HALECIUM HALECINUM (L.)
Dale Roads, dredged, 23.3.49, (DWS); 17.9.49, (GO):
SKOKHOLM—North Haven, rare, 12.8.50, (RH).
Sertulariide (E 40)
DIPHASIA ATTENUATA (Hincks)
SKOKHOLM—North Haven, among Bryopsis plumosa, 16.8.50,
(RH).
DIPHASIA ROSACEA (L.)
SKOKHOLM—North Haven, rare, on Sertularia cupressina ; Little
Bay, rare, on Yubularia indivisa, August 1950, (RH).
DYNAMENA PUMILA (L.) (E40; Y 1413; BY Plate 1)
Gann Stones, abundant; Point Wood Beach; Slip Pier
Beach ; Castle Beach, abundant ; Great Castle Head, common.
SKOKHOLM—Peter’s Bay, common ; South Haven, Little Bay and
Crab Bay, rare. Under boulders and on Fucus serratus. March,
April, August and September.
SERTULARELLA POLYZONIAS (L.) (E 41)
Castle Beach, rare, under boulder, 27.8.49, (GO). SkokHoLm
—North Haven, rare, 12.8.50, (RH).
246 R. BASSINDALE AND J. H. BARRETT
SERTULARELLA RUGOSA Gray
_ SKokHOLM—Common on lobster pots from Mr. F. Sturley,
26.6.50, (JHB).
SERTULARELLA MEDITERRANEA Hartlaub
SKOKHOLM—Little Bay, L.W.S.T., 16.8.50, (RH).
HyDRALLMANIA FALCATA (L.) ,
SKOKHOLM—North Haven, rare, 16.8.50, (RH).
SERTULARIA CUPRESSINA (L.) including var. ARGENTEA
SKOKHOLM—On lobster pots from Mr. F. Sturley. Up to
17 inches long, 26.6.50, (JHB). North and South Havens, rare,
August 1950, (RH).
SERTULARIA OPERCULATA (L.) (BY Plate 1)
SKOKHOLM—On lobster pots from Mr. F. Sturley, 26.6.50,
(JHB). Dead pieces washed up in North and South Havens,
Peter’s Bay, August 1950, (RH).
Plumulariidae Feather hydroids (E41 ; W 18)
MOoNOTHECA OBLIQUA (Johnston)
SKOKHOLM—North and South Havens, on Laminaria holdfasts
with Polyzoa, rare, August 1950, (RH).
PLUMULARIA SETACEA (Ellis and Solander) (E 41)
Stack Rock, abundant on sponge under stone, 25.9.53, (EMS).
SKOKHOLM—North and South Havens, Little Bay, on weeds and
Tubularia indivisa, August 1950, (RH).
PLUMULARIA CATHARINA Johnston
SkokHo_tm—North Haven, on stem of Halecium with Campanu-
laria hinckst, 12.8.50, (RH).
NNEMERTESIA ANTENNINA (L.) |
SKOKHOLM—Common on Maia squinado from Mr. F. Sturley,
26.6.50, (JHB) ; dead colonies frequently washed up.
NEMERTESIA RAMOSA (Lamouroux) |
Great Castle Head, dead colony 26 inches long, 29.7.50, (JHB).
AGLAOPHENIA PLUMA (L.)
Musselwick, one in pool, L.W.M., 28.3.48, (RDP): Gann
Flats, common on Halidrys siliquosa, 1.7.50, (JHB). SkokHoLM—
North Haven, Peter’s Bay, Wreck Cove and Hog Bay, on Laminaria
holdfasts, with corbule, August 1950, (RH).
THE DALE FORT MARINE FAUNA 247
Order CHONDROPHORA
Velellide
MeppUEA VELELLA (.) (RY 192; H 111-2; BY Plate 3)
This floating sub-tropical species washes alive onto British
shores when oceanic and local wind and current conditions are
smtaple. It was recorded on 24.4.49, raré;. 27.7.50, rare ;
10.8.50, abundant ; 3.8.51, rare; 15.8.53, rare; 20.8.53, rare ;
July(?) 1954, rare; 9.7.56, common.
Order SIPHONOPHORA
Physaliide
PHYSALIA PHYSALIS (L.) Portuguese man-of-war (W 25-29 ;
C 247-254; Hi12; 118-121; BY Plate 3)
This floating, sub-tropical species with a virulent sting, washes
alive onto British shores as with Velella. It has, however, only
been recorded from Skokholm and Skomer. 8.10.53, two:;
I7PlO.545. OMe’; 10.10.54, ONE; 19.10.54, Six.
Class SCYPHOMEDUSZ (E 32)
The floating jellyfishes require special methods of collection
and only a few species have been noted. The attached Stauro-
meduse have, however, been recorded by hand collecting.
Order STAUROMEDUS# (EF 42)
Eleutherocarpide (= Lucernariide)
HALICLYSTUS AURICULA (Rathke) (E 43; W 23; BY Plate 3)
Great Castle Head, West Dale Bay, Gateholm. SkoxkHoLmM—
Peter’s Bay, Crab Bay. On Cladophora rupestris, Chondrus crispus,
Ceramium, Rhodymenia palmata and Enteromorpha, in pools at L.W.M.
and at L.W.E.S.T. Common. March, July, August, September.
LUCERNARIOPSIS CAMPANULATA Lamouroux (E 43)
Great Castle Head, Martin’s Haven. SxkoxHoLmM—South Haven,
Peter’s Bay, Crab Bay. Rare at L.W.S.T. on Himanthalia lorea
and on red weeds, especially Gigartina.
LucERNARIA QUADRICORNIS O. F. Miiller (E 43)
Gann Flats, one on Laminaria, L.W.S.T., 25.8.54, (ORB).
Order SEMAOSTOM &©
Pelagiide
(CHRYSAORA HYOSCELLA (L.) (Y 21; H 128; BY Plate 4)
Cast ashore in various places, sometimes in large numbers.
July and August, 1949 and 1950.
248 R. BASSINDALE AND J. H. BARRETT
CYANEA CAPILLATA (L.) var. LAMARCKI Péron and _ Lesueur
(Y 21; RY 84; H127, 128; ~ BY Plateg?)
Rare, July, 1951 and 1954.
Aureliidz
AURELIA AURITA (L.) Common jelly fish (W 20, 21 ; Scyphistoma
and ephyra,. DW 132; Y 16,17; HMiie6) aig ares ee
Plate 4)
Widespread, occasionally abundant, June and July, 1949,
1950, 1952, 1955, 1956.
Order RHIZOSTOMA
Rhizostomidz
Ruizostoma octopus (L.) (Y 21; H 107, 128, 130; BY Plate 4)
Rare, January, June, July, December, 1949, 1950. With
Ayperia galba.
Class ANTHOZOA (=Zoantharia, E 33)
The anemones are well represented by both rock living and
mud living species. Most species are Actiniarians but the two
British solitary corals and the related Corynactis, of the Madre-
poraria, are also present in the area.
Sub-Class HEXACORALLIA
Order ACTINIARIA (E 44)
Halcampide
HALCAMPA CHRYSANTHELLUM (Peach) (E 45)
Gann Flats, one, 6.3.54, (JM).
PEACHIA HASTATA Gosse (E 45; BY Plate 5)
Dale Sands, L.W.S.T., two, 28.3.48 ; several, September 1948,
(RDP): three, September 1949, (GO).
Actiniide (E 46)
ACTINIA EQUINA L. Beadlet (E46; W..34, 87 5 Yaou, Rye.
BY Plate 5)
Common on all rocky shores including colour varieties. ‘The
variety fragacea is recorded from Point Wood Beach, Gunkel and
Skokholm. Viviparous.
ANEMONIA SULCATA (Pennant) Opelet or Snake-locks: (E 46 ;
W333 DW 48;.Y 85 ; BY Plate 5)
Common in several localities including colour varieties. Usually
in rock pools and crevices.
THE DALE FORT MARINE FAUNA 249
TEALIA FELINA (L.) var. CORIACEA (Cuvier) Dahlia (E 46;
Ween, 92; DW 104; Y 84; BY Plate 6)
Fairly common on all rocky shores.
BUNODACTIS VERRUCOSA (Pennant) Gem (E. 47; BY Plate 6)
Fairly common on all rocky shores. Young produced, 24.4.52,
( JHB).
ANTHOPLEURA THALLIA (Gosse) Glaucous pimplet (E47; BY
Plate 6)
SKOKHOLM—South Haven, one, 15.8.47, (CT).
Metridiide
METRIDIUM SENILE (L.) var. DIANTHUS (Ellis) Plumose (W 37 ;
DWi1g2)> Y 84; BY Plate 6)
Angle Beach, L.W.S.T.; one, April 1953; one, 5.4.54 (UB).
Hormathiide
CALLIACTIS PARASITICA (Couch) Parasitic (W 61; DW 136;
Wo 703);) BY Plate 6)
Stack Fort, one on Buccinum undatum shell with Eupagurus prideauxi,
6.7.56, ( JHB)
ADAMSIA PALLIATA (Bohadsch) Cloak (DW 136; BY Plate 6)
With Eupagurus. Musselwick, one, March 1955, (UB):
dredged near Monk Haven, 3.9.51, (EMT) and near Watch
‘House Point, 19.8.52, ( JHB).
Sagartiide
SAGARTIA ELEGANS (Dalyell) (E 48; RY 46; BY Plate 7)
Occasional, several colour varieties, L.W.M. Musselwick,
Castle Beach, Great Castle Head and Bay, Monk Haven, Martin’s
Haven. SxokHoLtm—South Haven, Crab Bay, Frank’s Point.
SAGARTIA TROGLODYTES (Price) (E 48; BY Plate 7)
Occasional, sometimes in pools. Gann Stones, Gann Flats,
Point Wood Beach, Castle Beach, St. Bride’s Bay, SkokHOLM—
Peter’s Bay, Crab Bay.
ACTINOTHOE SPHYRODETA (Gosse)
Castle Beach. SkoxkHotm—Little Bay. SkoMER—Mew Stone.
L.W.S.T.
ACTINOTHOE ANGUICOMA (Price) (E 49)
Black Rocks, sand, L.W.S.T., one, 28.8.53, (VB).
CEREUS PEDUNCULATUS (Pennant) (E48; BY Plate 7)
Musselwick, Gann Flats, Gunkel, Watwick Bay, Angle Bay.
In pools at Watwick but on stones in muddy sand over an extensive
area on Dale Sands on the razor shell bed. Viviparous breeding,
3.4.54, (VB).
250 R. BASSINDALE AND J. H. BARRETT
Order MADREPORARIA Corals (E 50)
Turbinolide
CARYOPHYLLIA SMITHI Stokes Devonshire cup-coral (E 50 5 W 39 ;
Vigo: BY Plate 7)
Wide but irregular distribution at L.W.E.S.T. Musselwick,
Castle Beach, Gunkel, Gateholm. SKokHoLmM—Crab Bay, East
Bay. SKOMER—Mew Stone, Basin, North Haven.
Corallinomorphidz
CoryYNACTIS viriIDIs Allman Jewel anemone (E 49; W 40; Y 85)
Castle Beach, several, 7.9.56, (UCGW).. SkomeEr—Mew Stone,
April 1946, (VB) (a coral with no skeleton but it has the knobbed
tentacles. Not necessarily green).
Eupsammiide
BALANOPHYLLIA REGIA Gosse (DW 104)
SKOKHOLM—Crab Bay, two, L.W.S.T., 23.4.55. SKOMER—
South Haven, Basin, Mew Stone, April 1946, (UB).
Phylum CTENOPHORA (E 36)
The sea gooseberries or comb-jellies like jellyfish and medusae,
are transparent floating animals and although common in the
plankton, they occur only occasionally stranded on the shore or
alive in rock pools. |
PLEUROBRACHIA PILEUS (O. F. Miiller) (E 50; DW 132; Y 22;
H 107, 135-7, 144; BY Plate 2) :
In plankton, 24.9.53, (CITJ) ; 6.7.49, (GM); 26.6.56, (NC).
BEROE cucumis Fabricius (H 144; BY Plate 2)
In plankton, 28.3.48, (RDP).
Phylum PLATYHELMINTHES Filat-worms (E 13, 53)
Class TURBELLARIA (E53)
Order TRICLADIDA (larva H 183)
Procerodidz
PROCERODES ULV& (Oersted) (E54; BY Plate 2)
This interesting animal lives under stones only where fresh
water streams flow over the sea shore and is capable of living
in sea water and in almost entirely fresh water. Gann Flats,
Point Wood Beach, Castle Beach, Gunkel, Mill Bay, Marloes
Sands, Monk Haven. Egg capsules noted, 8.4.49, (RDP).
THE DALE FORT MARINE FAUNA 251
Order POLYCLADIDA
Polyclad flatworms must be handled carefully and brought
home in individual vessels. Otherwise they are likely to disinte-
grate.
Leptoplanide
LEPTOPLANA TREMELLARIS (O. F. Miiller) (E 54) |
Occasional specimens. Musselwick, Gann Flats, Slip Pier
Beach, Great Castle Head, Gateholm, Monk Haven, Angle Bay,
Dale Roads (dredge) and Skokholm.
Euryleptide |
PROSTHECERAEUS viTTaTus (Montagu) (Y 159; BY Plate II)
Occasional under boulders or in Laminaria holdfasts. Mussel-
wick Point, Gann Flats, Point Wood Beach, Dale Beach.
STYLOSTOMUM VARIABILE Lang
SKOKHOLM—South Haven, two, 18.7.55, (KST).
Clas ,TREMATODA (E53)
The parasitic flat-worms, both Trematodes (flukes) and Cestodes
(tape-worms) must be searched for in or on their hosts. The
single species recorded here merely means that no one has looked
for the many species which must be present.
Order MONOGENEA
Hexabothriide
RAJONCHOCOTYLOIDES EMARGINATA (Ollson)
Dale Roads, on gills of skates, trawled, September 1948, (RDP).
Phylum NEMERTINI (E 13, 56; larva H 183)
Class ANOPLA
Order PALHONEMERTINI
Tubulanids
TUBULANUS ANNULATUS (Montagu) (E57; Y 4152; BY Plate 8)
One or two at Musselwick, Gann Flats, Martin’s Haven. Up
to 20 cm. long.
Lineide (E 59)
LINEUS LONGIssIMus (Gunnerus) Bootlace worm (E59; Y 142;
BY Plate 8)
Point Wood Beach, Castle Beach. SkoxHotm—Crab Bay and
SKOMER—North Haven. Occasional. Common at Gann Stones
where 4 metres is a common length.
252 R. BASSINDALE AND J. H. BARRETT
LINEUS BILINEATUS (Renier)
Dale Sands, L.W.E.S.T., two, 14.4.49 (RDP) ; one, 26.8.49,
(GO).
LINEUS RUBER (Miller) (E59; BY Plate 8)
Point Wood Beach, Dale Beach, Dale Fort Beach, Castle Beach.
SKOKHOLM—SsSouth Haven (up to 8 cm. long) and North Haven.
Occasional. March, May, August.
LINEUS GESSERENSIS (Miiller) (E 59)
Musselwick, Point Wood Beach (common), Slip Pier Beach,
Castle Beach, Angle Bay. March, April, November. Both
green and red varieties. On 10.4.49, of two specimens of the
red variety in gelatinous tubes, one had morulae at the 8 cell
stage and the other about 200 active, colourless young each with
two pink eyespots ( JHB).
MIcRURA FASIOLATA Ehrenberg
Castle Beach, one, L.W.S.T., 11.4.49, (RDP).
CEREBRATULUS MARGINATUS Renier
Gann Flats and Dale Beach below M.L.T. Rare, up to 13 cm.
long. March, August, September, (det. S. Prudhoe).
Class ENOPLA
Order HAPLONEMERTINI
Emplectonematidz
EMPLECTONEMA GRACILE (Johnston)
Watwick Bay, one, 19.7.51, (det. S. Prudhoe), (SP).
EMPLECTONEMA NEESI (Oéersted)
Slip Pier Beach, three, 12.4.49, (RDP); Watwick, several,
(det. S. Prudhoe), 19.7.51, ( JHB).
Prosorhochmidz
OERSTEDIA DORSALIS Abildgaard
Great Castle Bay, one on Polyides caprinus, L.W.S.T., 7.3.54 3
one on holdfast of Laminaria digitata, 25.4.55, (AFB) : Dale Roads,
dredged, 1.9.49, (GO).
Amphiporide
AMPHIPORUS LACTIFLOREUS (Johnston) (E57; BY Plate 8)
Musselwick, Point Wood Beach, Slip Pier Beach. SKOKHOLM—
Crab Bay, North Haven. March, April, June, July, November.
Occasional. On the Gann Flats it was common in March 1949,
but absent in July and August 1949, (NWM).
THE DALE FORT MARINE FAUNA 253
Tetrastemmatids
"TETRASTEMMA MELANOCEPHALUM (Johnston)
Gann Saltings, common at edge of Scirpus area, 11.8.55, (JM).
‘TETRASTEMMA CANDIDUM (O. F. Miller)
Great Castle Bay, one on Polyides caprinus, L.W.S.T., 7.3.54,
(JM).
Phylum ANNELIDA (E 14, 60)
‘Class POLYCH ETA (E 62, 63; Larve DW111; H 181, 185)
This important marine group of segmented worms is well
represented at Dale in all habitats. ‘The active or errant species
usually have an armed proboscis and are carnivores or scavengers.
The burrowing and tubicolous species usually have tentacles and
are detritus eaters or ciliary filter-feeders. Eggs and sperm are
discharged into the sea water and the larve are planktonic, even-
tually settling on a substratum appropriate to adult life. The
larve are selective in their choice of substratum and can delay
metamorphosis until a suitable place is found: in Spirorbis they
settle near adults of their own species. Some eggs are laid in
gelatinous masses attached to rock or seaweed (or sometimes on
sand) and in other cases eggs are stored after fertilisation in the
tube or in a special brood pouch (e.g. the operculum of some
Spirorbis species) or, as in some syllids, the eggs may be stuck
onto the body. In some cases the larval stages are of several
weeks duration but in others it may be a few hours (e.g. Spzrorbis) :
in others development is direct.
Ripe tubiculous worms which spawn into the sea will usually
do so immediately they are extracted from their tubes, and as the
sexes are often of different colours when ripe, artificial fertilisations
are easily made.
The tubicolous and burrowing worms of the mud and gravel
habitat are very well represented in Dale and Angle Bays.
ERRANTIA The errant polychaetes (E 63)
Aphroditidze Scale worms (E 65)
Mainly rocky shore animals.
APHRODITE ACULEATA L. Sea mouse (E65; Y 249, 252; BY
Plate 9)
Gann Flats, Dale Sands, L.W.E.S.T. ; Dale Roads. SKkomMErR
North Haven, dredged. March, April, September, 1948-49-51
and 55. ‘This species burrows in the surface layers of a muddy
sand bottom in the sub-littoral. It is occasionally exposed by
extreme tides or washed up by heavy gales.
254 R. BASSINDALE AND J. H. BARRETT
LEPIDONOTUS SQUAMATUS (L.) (E66; BY Plate 11)
Musselwick, Point Wood Beach, Slip Pier Beach, Castle Beach,
Great Castle Head, Angle Bay, Dale Roads (dredged). Sxox-
HOLM—Crab Bay. Common. March, September. |
LEPIDONOTUS CLAVA (Montagu) (E 66)
Castle Beach, L.W.S.T., one, 27.8.49, (GO): Dale Roads,
dredged, 16.9.49, (UCL); in Laminaria holdfasts from buoy,
September 1948, (UCL). SxoxHotm—Crab Bay, occasional,
L.W.S.T., 14.9.54, (HJM).
GATTYANA CIRROSA (Pallas)
Dale Beach, 28.3.48, (RDP) : Musselwick, March 1955, (UB).
HARMOTHOE IMBRICATA (L.) (E 66)
Musselwick, Gann Flats, Point Wood Beach, Slip Pier Beach.
SKOKHOLM—Crab Bay, Peter’s Bay. Common. March, April,
September.
HARMOTHOE SPINIFERA (Ehlers)
Gann Stones, 28.3.48; 8.4.49, (RDP).
HARMOTHOE RETICULATA (Claparéde)
Gann Flats South, one, under stone on gravel, 26.3.56, (UB).
HARMOTHOE LONGISETIS (Grube)
Gann Stones, Slip Pier Beach, 28.3.48, (RDP).
HARMOTHOE LUNULATA (Delle Chiaje) (E66; Y 177, 240)
Gann Stones, Gann Flats, Point Wood Beach, Dale Fort Beach,
Castle Beach, Angle Bay. Common. March, July, August.
LAGISCA EXTENUATA (Grube) (E67; BY Plate 11)
Castle Beach, Great Castle Head, Gateholm, Martin’s Haven,
Angle Bay. SkokHotmM—Crab Bay, South Haven. Rare. March,
April, July, August, September.
POLYNOE SCOLOPENDRINA Savigny (E 68)
Musselwick Point, 28.3.48, (RDP); 11.8.49, (GO); March
1955, (UB) : Point Wood Beach, 25.8.49, (GO). Rare.
LEPIDASTHENIA ARGUS Hodgson (DW 140)
Gann Flats South, commensal with Amphitrite edwards, September
1949, (GO).
HALOSYDNA GELATINOSA (M. Sars) (E67; Y 143)
Musselwick (up to 24 inches long), Point Wood Beach, Slip Pier
Beach, Castle Beach, Martin’s Haven, Angle Bay. Under
boulders and in Laminaria holdfasts. Common. March, April,
August, September.
SIGALION MALTHIDAE Audouin and M. Edwards
Gann Flats, L.W.S.T. Rare. March, September.
THE DALE FORT MARINE FAUNA 255
STHENELAIS BOA (Johnston) (E 67)
Musselwick Point, Gann Stones, Gann Flats, Dale Beach,
Point Wood Beach, Slip Pier Beach, Castle Beach, Gateholm,
Angle Bay, Dale Roads. SKkoxkHotm—Peter’s Bay, North Haven.
L.W.M., under stones and in Laminaria holdfasts. Rare. March,
April, July, August, September.
Amphinomide (E 68)
EUPHROSYNE FOLIOSA Audouin. and M.. Edwards
Musselwick, (RDP); Castle Beach, one, L.W.S.T., 28.8.40,
(GO) : Monk Haven, two dredged on stones covered with tuni-
cates, 25.3.52, (NWM).
Phyllodocide (E 68 ; larva H 173)
Some of the species in this family are difficult to separate and
simplified keys should be used with caution.
PHYLLODOCE LAMINOSA Savigny (E 69)
Gann Stones, Slip Pier Beach, Castle Beach, Gunkel, Gateholm,
Martin’s Haven. SkokHotmM—Crab Bay. SkomMER—North Haven,,
South Haven, Mew Stone. L.W.S.T., under boulders. Rare.
March, April. Egg masses, 28.3.48 and 2.4.46.
PHYLLODOCE LAMELLIGERA (Gmelin) (E 69)
Gann Stones, Castle Beach, Angle Bay; SkokHotmM—South
Haven. L.W.S.T., March, July, August. Up to 20 cm. long.
PHYLLODOCE MACULATA (Ey (BY Plate9)
Dale Beach, September 1948, (UCL): Great Castle Head,
26.7.50, (MRY).
PHYLLODOCE muCcOSA Oersted
Musselwick, one, 25.3.56, (UB): Slip Pier Beach, 28.3.48,
(RDP).
EuLauia viripis (O. F. Miller) (E69, egg mass E70; BY
Plate 9)
Widespread : common under stones and among barnacles :
also dredged. Egg masses recorded Dale, March 1949, (NWM) ;
9.4.51, (JHB): West Dale Bay, March ( JHB) ; SkomEr—-Mew
Stone, 5.4.46, (UB).
EULALIA PUNCTIFERA (Grube)
Martin’s Haven, 28.3.48, (RDP).
EULALIA (EUMIDA) SANGUINEA Oersted (E 69)
Gann Stones, rare, L.W.S.T., 11.8.49, (GO) : Gann Flats, ripe
specimens, common in Laminaria holdfasts washed ashore, 8.8.49,
(GO) Slip Pier Beach, 28.3.48, (RDP).
256 R. BASSINDALE AND J. H. BARRETT
Tomopteride
ENAPTERIS EUGHAETA (Chun)
Plankton, 23.8.49, (GO): 5.8.52, (EMS).
"TOMOPTERIS HELGOLANDICA Greeff
Plankton, September 1952, (GTYJ).
Hesionide (E 74)
KEFERSTEINIA CIRRATA (Keferstein) (E 74)
Slip Pier Beach, 28.3.48, (RDP): Dale Roads, dredged,
17.9.49, (GQ). SkoxkHotm—Crab Bay, 12.4.48, (BW). Rare.
(CCASTALIA PUNCTATA (O. F. Miiller)
Point Wood Beach, March 1955, (UB).
MaGALIA PERARMATA Marion and Bobretzky
Dale Roads, dredged, 17.9.49, (GO).
Syllide (E 70)
Many syllids are very small and easily overlooked. Identifi-
cation is difficult and simplified keys are inadvisable.
SYLLIS SPONGICOLA Grube
Dale, in Laminaria holdfast from buoy, September 1948, (UCL).
SYLLIS AMICA Quatrefages
Castle Beach, one in Laminaria holdfast, 22.3.56, (UB).
SYLLIS KROHNI Ehlers (E 71)
Dale Point, one under sponge, L.W.S.T., 25.9.49, (GO).
PTEROSYLLIS FORMOSA Claparéde (E 71)
Dale, in Laminaria holdfast from buoy, September 1948, (UCL):
Castle Beach, one under boulder, L.W.M., 28.8.49, (GO).
AUTOLYTUs PiIcTUs (Ehlers) (E73; W 49)
Point Wood Beach, one in Fucus holdfast, 24.3.55, (UB).
MyRIANIDA PINNIGERA (Montagu) (E 74)
Musselwick, one, on weed, 24.9.49, (UCL): Point Wood
Beach, one, under stone, L.W.M., 9.9.49, (GO).
Nereidz
NEREIS PELAGICA (L.) (E 75)
Musselwick, Dale, Point Wood Beach, Castle Beach, Watwick
Bay, Angle Bay. SKkokHoLM—Crab Bay, Crab Rocks. SKoMER—
North Haven. Common. March, April, August, September.
Under stones and in holdfasts, L.W.M.
NEREIS DIVERSICOLOR O. F. Miiller (E 76; BY Plate 9g)
Musselwick, Gann Flats, Gann Estuary up to Mullock Bridge
and beyond : also stated to occur in Laminaria holdfasts near the
THE DALE FORT MARINE FAUNA 257
Slip Pier, and at Castle Beach ; and from L.W.M. on SkokHoLm
—South Haven, Crab Bay, Peter’s Bay.
This species is a brackish water animal not living in conditions
of full salinity and capable of withstanding temporary dilution
to less than 0.5 parts per thousand. It normally occurs on shores
where fresh water flows over the beach and although often found
in sand it is characteristically abundant in estuarine muds, where
densities of up to 3,000 per sq. metre have been recorded. In
one population a density of 300 in summer was reduced to a
density of 50 during winter and spring. The worm lives in
burrows and can feed either by seizing small animals or plant
material in its jaws; by swallowing the surface detritus and its
contained microfauna; or by creating, within the mouth of
the burrow, a funnel of mucus threads which filters off detritus
brought in by the irrigation movements of the body: the funnel
and trapped particles are then swallowed.
A normal breeding population contains up to 10 per cent.
males and both sexes turn green at maturity. Spawning takes
place in late February (later further north) after several females
have coiled round a single male. ‘The larve live in the mud and
adopt the adult mode of life after 10 weeks, at a length of 4 mm.
These attain a length of 10 cm. by the next spawning period and
then die. Since spawning only takes place in the presence of the
other sex, some females do not spawn and live on to attain a
large size, but die before the next spawning season.
NEREIS FUCATA Savigny (E 76)
Point Wood Beach, (GO): dredged off Musselwick, September
1948, (RDP) ; trawled, Dale Roads, 11.9.50, (EMT) and 25.3.52,
(NWM): in Buccinum shells with hermit-crabs, rare. Also
SKOKHOLM—South Haven, one in debris in pool, 15.8.47, (CT).
This species can apparently live without association with hermit
crabs and free living specimens should be preserved at the Centre
for confirmation of identification.
PERINEREIS CULTRIFERA (Grube) (E76; Y 151)
Musselwick, Gann Flats, Point Wood Beach, Slip Pier Beach.
SKOKHOLM—North Haven, Peter’s Bay. Common under stones,
L.W.M. March, May, June, September, November.
PLATYNEREIS DUMERILI (Audouin and M. Edwards) (E 77;
BY Flate 9)
Gann Flats, Brig Stones, Point Wood Beach, Castle Beach,
Great Castle Head, Angle Bay and Skokholm: dredged off
Musselwick and in Dale Roads. Lives in a membranous tube
attached to weeds and Laminaria holdfasts. L.W.M. and below.
Common. Young in tube, 22.3.56, (UB).
258 R. BASSINDALE AND J. H. BARRETT
Nephthydide (E 77)
NEPHTHYS CAECA (O. F. Miller) (E 77)
Gann Mouth, absent, 1.4.49 ; present 31.3.50 (NWM) : Dale
Sands, one, 3.4.49, (RDP): Castle Beach, one, 25.7.49, (GO) ;
one, 30.7.49, (NWM) ; several, 22.9.49, (UCL).
NEPHTHYS HOMBERGI Lamarck (E77; BY Plate 10)
Gann Flats, one, 23.11.48, (NWM); March 1955, (UB) :
Black Rocks, in sand, 28.3.48, (RDP): Dale Sands, 26.7.50,
(MRY) : Monk Haven, several, 26.9.49, (UCL).
NEPHTHYS CIRROSA Ehlers (E 78)
Gann, L.W.N.T., 8.4.49, (RDP): Monk Haven, im sand;
September 1948, (UCL).
Glyceride (E 78, 79)
GLYCERA GIGANTEA Quatrefages
Dale Roads, one dredged, 17.9.49, (UCL).
GLYCERA CONVOLUTA Keferstein (E 79)
Musselwick, March 1956, (UB): Gann, with Lanice tubes,
September 1948, (UCL); 28.3:48, (RDP))> Dale) Beach slip
Pier Beach, 28.3.48, (RDP).
GLYCERA ALBA Rathke
Gann, L.W.N.T. 26.7.54, (det. N. Tebble).
GONIADA MACULATA Oersted
Dale Beach, several in sand sievings, September 1948, (RDP).
Eunicide (E 79; Y 153; RY 257)
MARPHYSA SANGUINEA (Montagu) (E80; Y 152; BY Plate 10)
Musselwick, 28.3.48, (RDP); 28.3.52, (NWM);_ 25.8.56,
(GEB): Gann Flats, March, (JHB); March, 1955, (UB):
Dale Sands, 26.7.50, (MRY). Under boulders, in crevices, in
muddy sand, up to 15 inches long.
MARPHYSA BELLI (Audouin and M. Edwards)
Gann and Dale Beach, sieved from sand, M.T.L., September
1948, (RDP).
LysIDICE NINETTA Audouin and M. Edwards (E. 80 ; BY Plate 10)
Gann Stones, 28.3.48, (RDP) : in rock pool, L.W.M., 26.9.40,
(UCL).
NEMATONEREIS UNICORNIS (Grube)
Slip Pier Beach, 28.3.48, (RDP).
LUMBRICONEREIS IMPATIENS Claparéde
Dale Roads, three, dredged, 17.9.49, (UCL).
THE DALE FORT MARINE FAUNA 259
DorVILLEA (STAUROCEPHALUS) RUBROVITTATUS (Grube) var.
BIVITTATA (Pruvot and Racovitza) .
Gann Stones, under stone in Fucus serratus zone, 10.9.50, ( JG).
SEDENTARIA The Sedentary Polychaetes (E 64)
Orbiniide (E 80 as Ariciide)
ORBINIA LATREILLI (Audouin and M. Edwards) (= Aricza)
Gann, one, L.W.S.T., 13.8.49, (GO) : Dale Sands, one sieved
from sand, 13.4.49, (RDP).
ORBINIA CUVIERI (Audouin and M. Edwards) (= Arica)
Black Rocks sands, common, L.W.S.T., 28.3.48, (RDP).
Spionide (E 81)
SCOLELEPIS FULIGINOSA (Claparede)
Gann Stones, one in muddy sand, 24.3.56, (UB).
NERINE FOLIOSA (Audouin and M. Edwards) (E 82)
Musselwick, Gann Flats, Dale Beach. Below M.T.L. Com-
mon. March, April, August, September.
NERINE CIRRATULUS (Della Chiaje) (E 82)
Castle Beach, one in sand, 22.9.49, (UCL): common pro-
truding through Lithophyllum in rock pools, 27.4.50, ( JHB).
PyGosPIO ELEGANS (Claparéede) (E 82)
Gann, March, 1949; Watwick, 31.3.49, (NWM).
POLYDORA CILIATA (Johnston) (BY Plate 5)
Angle Bay, April 1953, (UB).
Chetopteride (E 83)
CHAETOPTERUS VARIOPEDATUS (Renier)
Gann Flats, one, 7.3.50, ( JHB).
Cirratulide (E 84)
AUDOUINEA TENTACULATA (Montagu) (E84 as Cirratulus; BY
Plate 11)
Gann Stones, Gann Estuary, Gann Flats, Slip Pier Beach.
SKOKHOLM—Peter’s Bay, Crab Bay. In muddy gravel under
stones, M.T.L. and below. March, April, August, September.
CirRATULUS cIRRATUS (O. F. Miiller) (E 85)
Gann Stones, Dale Beach, Slip Pier Beach, Castle Beach, Monk
Haven, Angle Bay. March, April, May, September.
CIRRATULUS FILIFORMIS Keferstein
Watwick Bay, 31.3.49, (NWM).
260 R. BASSINDALE AND J. H. BARRETT
DODECACERIA CONCHARUM Oersted
Watwick Bay, one, 2.4.54, (UB): Great Castle Head, two,
26.3.54, (AKC): SKkoKHOoLM, one, 11.9.49, (GO). L.W.M. in
holdfast of Laminaria and in pool in holdfast of Bifurcaria rotunda.
For asexual reproduction see DW 123.
Chlorhemide (E 85)
FLABELLIGERA AFFINIS Sars (E85; BY Plate 11)
Musselwick, Gann Stones, Gann Flats, Black Rocks, Slip Pier
Beach, Dale Fort Beach, Castle Beach, Martin’s Haven. Com-
mon under boulders and in Laminaria holdfasts. Also recorded
up to 30 mm. long at Musselwick, Black Rocks, Dale Fort Beach
and Martin’s Haven from among the spines of Psammechinus
miliaris (RDP, NWM, JM, UB). ‘This species walks about with
its chaetae protruding through a thin mucous tube.
Opheliide
AMMOTRYPANE AULOGASTER Rathke
Off Watch House Point, one dredged in fine mud, 3.9.49, (GO).
Capitellide (E 85, 86) —
NOTOMASTUS LATERICEUS M. Sars (E 86)
Gann Flats and Dale Sands. Common, L.W.M. March,
August, September, November.
CAPITELLA CAPITATA (Fabricius) (E 86)
Gann Flats, March 1956, (UB) : Dale Sands, 26.7.50, (MRY).
Arenicolide (E 86, 87)
ARENICOLA MARINA L. Lugworm (E87; Y3177, 224; RY 52;
BY Plates 12 and v)
Gann Stones, Gann Flats, Gann Estuary, Gann Saltings, Castle
Beach, Angle Bay. SKkokHoLtM—Peter’s Bay. SKOMER—South
Haven. Common and large on the Gann Flats, smaller speci-
mens in the Estuary and Saltings. Not so high up the estuary
on 31.3.50 as on 1.4.49 (NWM).
An account of the habits of this species is to be found in New
Biology No. 22. It is a burrowing sand eater. It spawns onto
the surface of the sand between new and full moon in the second
half of October. ‘The eggs, lying on the sand, hatch in 4-5 days
and at 14 days the active, but never planktonic, larve reach the
gravelly Fucus zone and live in mucous tubes. They migrate
actively to the sandy shore and also migrate frequently there-
after so that the larger specimens are to be found lowest on the
shore. They grow to 4.3 cm. long in one year (with no tail
region) and spawn at 2 years. After spawning 40 per cent. die.
Females outnumber males by nearly 4 to 1.
THE DALE FORT MARINE FAUNA 261
ARENICOLA GRUBII Claparéde (=branchialis) (E 87)
Gann Stones, Dale Beach, Castle Beach, Gunkel. SkOKHOLM—
Peter’s Bay, Crab Bay, South Haven. SKkomMer—North Haven.
In mud, rare. March, April, September.
ARENICOLA ECAUDATA Johnston (E87; BY Plate 12)
SKOKHOLM—North Haven, two under stones in shell sand,
16.9.54, (HJM).
Maldanide
CAESOCIRRUS NEGLECTUS Ardwissen (==Clymene oerstedit)
Gann Stones, common in mud, L.W.S.T., 3.4.50, (NWM) :
Gann Flats, common, L.W.M., September 1949, (GO): Dale
Beach, 26.39.48, (RDP).
Oweniide
OQwWENIA FUSIFORMIS Della Chiaje (larva H 173)
From Dale Sands to Musselwick, abundant in sand or muddy
sand near L.W.S.T. Egg masses attached by an anchoring
thread, colourless and about half the diameter of those of Phyllodoce
laminosa, are possibly of this species, 28.3.48, (RDP).
Sabellariide (E 87)
SABELLARIA SPINULOSA Leuckart (E 87)
Musselwick, one, 24.3.51, (NWM) : Gateholm, one, L.W.S.T.,
20.0040, CORDP).
Amphictenide (E 88)
PECTINARIA KORENI (Malmgren) (E89; Y 218; BY Plates 12
and v)
From Dale Sands to Musselwick, occasional near L.W.S.T.
in sand.
PECTINARIA BELGICA (Pallas) (E 89)
SKOMER—North Haven, dredged, April 1946, (UB).
Ampharetide (E 88)
MELINNA PALMATA Grube
Lower Gann, 28.3.48, (RDP); common in muddy sand,
L.W.S.T., April 1949, (GO): Dale, several, 8.4.55, (JM).
Terebellidae (E 89, 90 ; RY 207)
AMPHITRITE GRACILIS (Grube) (Eg1; BY Plate 12)
Dale Sands, March 1949, (NWM): Dale Fort Beach, 26.7.50,
(MRY).
AMPHITRITE JOHNSTONI Malmgren (Eg1; W513; Y31773; BY
Plate 12)
Gann Flats, March 1955, 1956, (UB).
262 R. BASSINDALE AND J. H. BARRETT
AMPHITRITE EDWARDSI (Quatrefages) (E 90, DW 140)
Gann Flats from Black Rocks to Musselwick. Common in
muddy gravel near L.W.M.
LANICE CONCHILEGA (Pallas) (E91; BY Plate 12)
Common from Dale Sands to Gann Stones. Up to 200 per
sq. m. (NAH) ; tubes at upper margin of range empty, 25.3.51,
(NWM). Angle Bay, April 1953, (UB). SkoxHoLmM—Crab Bay,
North Haven; rare. ‘The tubes are very characteristic (Y 224 ;
BY Plate v).
POLYMNIA NEBULOSA (Montagu) (Eg1; BY Plate 12)
Common under boulders and in Laminaria holdfasts in suitable
places from Point Wood Beach across the Gann Flats to Musselwick.
NICOLEA VENUSTULA (Montagu) (E91)
Gann Stones, 28.3.48, (RDP): Gann Flats, in Laminaria
holdfasts washed ashore, 11.8.49, (GO) : Slip Pier Beach, 28.3.48,
(RDP): dredged in. Dale_Roads, 28.3°480) (RDE) 3) 47.90.30.
(UCL).
NICOLEA ZOSTERIGOLA (Oersted) (E g2
Slip Pier, in Laminaria holdfasts from buoy, September 1948,
(UCL).
Sabellide (E 92, 93)
This family is well represented at Dale, particularly by the
extensive beds of Sabella and Branchiomma on the Gann Flats and
in Angle Bay. Many species are tolerant of muddy conditions.
SABELLA PAVONINA Savigny Peacock worm (E93; W 45, 47;
DW 108; Y 241, 244; BY Plates 13 and vy)
Abundant at and below L.W.N.T. in muddy sand from Black
Rocks to Musselwick; the pale variety with bands across the
tentacles is common, the often larger variety with dark red-brown
tentacles is less common. Also recorded from Castle Beach (one,
26.7.50, (MRY)) and Angle Bay (common, March 1953, (UB)).
This species, in common with the other Sabellid and Serpulid
worms protrudes a cone shaped fan of tentacles from the tube
and feeds on suspended particles drawn in on a.current produced
by the tentacle cilia. Sabella is remarkable for its ability to sort
the collected particles into three sizes of which the smallest are
eaten, the largest are discarded on the upwardly directed outgoing
current, and the middle sized particles are mixed with a secretion
and used in tube building.
BIsPIRA VOLUTACORNIS (Montagu) Twin-fan worm (E93; W 48 ;
DW 1085), Yoda, BY alates 13)
Dale Point, Castle Beach, Gunkel, Great Castle Bay. Small
groups found between rocks or in pools near L.W.M. March,
April, September.
THE DALE FORT MARINE FAUNA 263
POTAMILLA RENIFORMIS (O. F. Miiller) (BY Plate 13)
Great Castle Head, several tubes tangled around a grey sponge,
11.9.49 ; Dale Roads, several in a Clione-riddled oyster shell,
dredged, 16.9.49, (GO).
POTAMILLA TORELLI Malmgren (W 79)
Dale Roads, one, dredged, 17.9.49, (GO): SkoKHOLM—
common, L.W.M., 11.9.49, (GO); frequent in encrusting cal-
careous algae in rock pools below M.T.L., 2.4.52, (ECJ).
CHONE INFUNDIBULIFORMIS Krdéyer
Dale, one, 25.3.55, (JM).
BRANCHIOMMA VESICULOSUM (Montagu) (BY Plate 13)
Abundant on the Gann Flats in muddy gravel. Also present
at Castle Beach (28.3.48, (RDP)) and Angle Bay (UB). This
species is often interspersed with Sabella but in more gravelly
places. Its tube is coarser than that of Sabella (BY Plate v).
DasyCHONE BOMBYX (Dalyell) (E93; BY Plate 13)
Gann Flats, March 1955, (UB): SxoxHo_tm—Peter’s Bay,
one, L.W.M., 21.7.55, (KST).
FABRICIA SABELLA (Ehrenberg)
SkOKHOLM—North Haven, in crevices, H.W.N.T., 20.8.55, (JG).
ORIDIA ARMANDI (Claparéde)
Great Castle Head, numbers attached to a polyzoan, 15.9.49,
(GO)
Serpulide (E 94)
SERPULA VERMICULARIS L. (BY Plate iv)
SKOKHOLM—South Haven, several, L.W.M., 15.8.47, (QT).
POMATOCEROS TRIQUETER (L.) (BY Plate iv)
Musselwick, Point Wood Beach, Slip Pier Beach, Castle Beach,
Gateholm, Angle Bay. SkoxHotm—Crab Bay, Peter’s Bay,
North Haven. Sxkomer—North and South Havens. Abundant.
A common rock shore species, which, unlike most littoral species,
is also found in deeper water to 3,000 metres.
PROTULA TUBULARIA (Montagu) (BY Plate iv)
Dale Roads, dredged, common, 17.9.49, (UCL); 31.3.53,
(MRY).
APOMATUS sp.
Musselwick Point, several, 28.3.48, (RDP).
SPIRORBIS BOREALIS Daudin (E96; Y 24, 139; BY Plate iv)
Musselwick, Gann Estuary, Slip Pier Beach, Dale Fort Beach,
Castle Beach, Angle Bay. SxkoxHotm—Peter’s Bay, Crab Bay.
Abundant on stones and weeds near L.W.M.
264 R. BASSINDALE AND J. H. BARRETT
SPIRORBIS SPIRILLUM (L.) (BY Plate iv)
Slip Pier Beach, Angle Bay. SxkokHotmM—Crab Bay. SKOMER
—North and South Havens. On stones and weed near L.W.M.
There are numerous British species of Spzrorbis and although the
above are two common species, others are probably present. In
Spirorbis borealis eggs are laid at the moon’s quarters, when larve
are liberated and a new batch of oocytes begins to mature. Four-
teen days later the eggs (having been retained in the tube) are
ready for liberation as free swimming larve, the oocytes are ripe
and replace them in the tube, and a new batch of oocytes begins
to mature. ‘This process if repeated from at least May to October
(at Bangor). Thus, numerous larve can be obtained for a few
days each side of the moon’s quarters but only a few in between.
The synchronisation with the moon’s periods tends to break down
in the warmer months.
The larve at first swim towards the light but after a period
of 15 minutes to 2 hours they begin to wander and tend to swim
away from the light. They are attracted to solid surfaces, and
particularly to Fucus, and explore various places for up to 2 hours.
After this they remain on a surface and move more slowly with
frequent changes of direction. They eventually secrete a short
piece of transparent tube and settle permanently. Subsequent
additions to the tube are by means of the special collars for secret-
ing the calcareous tube. The larve settle most readily near
adults of their own species but are less discriminating if settle-
ment is delayed a few hours.
Clas MYZOSTOMARIA >
MyZOsTOMUM CIRRIFERUM Leuckart
Gann Stones, 28.9.49, (RDP): March, 1951 and 1952, absent,
(NWM). Lives on Antedon.
Class OLIGOCHAETA
Tubificide
CLITELLIO ARENARIUS O. F. Miiller
SKOKHOLM—North Haven, abundant in sand under stones,
25.5-55, (AD).
Class HIRUDINEA Leeches
PONTOBDELLA MURICATA (L.)
Dale Roads, three on Torpedo nobiliana, September 1948, (RDP);
one on Raia clavata, 21.7.49, (GO): Gann Flats, one on sand,
6.3.50, ( JHB)
THE DALE FORT MARINE FAUNA 265
Phylum SIPUNCULOIDEA (E 97)
GOLFINGIA ELONGATUM (Keferstein) (=Phascolosoma) (E 98)
In muddy gravel and sandy gravel from Dale Sands to Gann
Stones and in Angle Bay. Rare.
GOLFINGIA VULGARE (Blainville) (= Phascolosoma)
Gann Stones, one in muddy gravel with Loxosoma, 28.3.48 ;
one, 14.4.49, (RDP).
GOLFINGIA MINUTUM (Keferstein) (= Phascolosoma) (E 98)
Slip, Pier Beach, one, September 1948, (UCL).
PHASCOLION STROMBI (Montagu) (BY Plate 11)
Abundant in dead Turritella shells dredged in Dale Roads.
Phylum ECHIUROIDEA
‘THALASSEMA NEPTUNI Gaertner (E 08)
SKOMER—North Haven, one, April 1946, (UB).
Phylum PRIAPULOIDEA
PRIAPULUS CAUDATUS Lamarck (E98: BY Plate 11)
Gann Flats, one in sand and gravel, 3 inches below surface
lying horizontally, L.W.E.S.T., 6.3.54, (JM): one, March
1955, (UB).
Phylum ARTHROPODA (E 14, 102)
Sub-Phylum CRUSTACEA (E 103, 104)
Class OSTRACODA (H 161)
There are many bottom living and planktonic ostracods in
British waters but they are all small and are largely ignored.
CYTHERE LUTEA O. F. Miller
SKOKHOLM—North Haven, in Laminaria holdfasts, August
1955, (JG).
HEMICYTHERE VILLOSA (G. O. Sars)
SKOKHOLM—North Haven, in Laminaria holdfasts, August
1955, (JG).
PARADOXOSTOMA sp.
SKOKHOLM—North Haven, on Lomentaria articulata, August
1955, (JG).
Class COPEPODA (RY 111)
The copepods form a numerous and important group on and
in the sea bed (even among sand grains), and among weeds,
but being so small they are normally overlooked. In the plankton
266 R. BASSINDALE AND J. H. BARRETT
they are the dominant animal group and numerous species are
present. In addition the parasitic copepods are present on and
in a variety of hosts. In each case specral collecting methods
are required and only a few representative species have so far
been recorded.
Order EUCOPEPODA
Sub-Order CALANOIDA (W 66; RY 121, 128; H 157 onwards)
Pontellidz
ANOMALOCERA PATERSONI Templeton (H 160, 164)
Dale Roads plankton, three, 31.8.54, (ORB).
Sub-Order HARPACTICOIDA
Ectinosomidz
ECTINOSOMA TENUIPES 'T. and A. Scott
SKOKHOLM—North Haven, in Laminaria holdfast, August 1955,
(JG).
Harpacticide
Ticriopus FULvus (Fischer) (=bdbrevicornis O. F. Miller)
From Slip Pier Beach round Dale Point to Watwick. SKoK-
HOLM—Peter’s Bay and elsewhere ; SkoMER—The Spit. Abundant
in pools at, and above, H.W.N.T. Eggs noted in April, May and
July. (See Journ. Mar. Biol. Assoc. U.K. 36, 1957, 115).
Thalestride
PARATHALESTRIS Sp.
SKOKHOLM—In pool with Tigriopus, August 1955, (JG).
DacTYLOPODIA NEGLECTA (G. O. Sars)
SkokHoLm—North Haven, on Lomentaria, August 1955, ( JG).
Laophontide
LAOPHONTE SERRATA (Claus)
SkokHoLmM—North Haven, in Laminaria holdfast, August 1955,
(JG).
Metide
MeETIs IGNEA Philippi
SkokHoLtm—North and South Havens, in crevices, August
1955; (JG).
DIARTHRODES sp. |
SkOKHOLM—South Haven, on Corallina, August 1955, (JG). .
THE DALE FORT MARINE FAUNA 267
Sub-Order CGYCLOPOIDA
Cancerillide
CANCERILLA TUBULATA Dalyell
Castle Beach, one on Amphipholis squamata, dredged, 16.8.49,
(GO).
Lichomolgidz
MYTILICOLA INTESTINALIS Steuer
A bright red intestinal parasite of the common mussel, Mytilus
edulis which is having a marked effect on British mussel beds.
It appeared in Britain at Blyth in 1947 and has spread rapidly
in recent years.
Gann, near Lime Kiln, 2 out of 20 Mytilus infected, 5.12.51,
(GCB) : present in about 95 per cent. of the mussels in the area
from Angle Bay and Dale to Little Milford, Pennar Gut, Lawrenny
and Landshipping ; up to 33 parasites per mussel, January 1954,
(BTH).
SABELLIPHILUS ELONGATUS M. Sars
Gann Flats, on tentacles of Sabella pavonina, August 1953, (VB):
(det. J. P. Harding). A rare species previously recorded in 1877
and 1888.
Sub-Order CALIGOIDA
Caligide (RY 227)
CALIGUS RAPAX Milne Edwards
Dale Roads, two females with egg sacs, attached to grey mullet
(Mugil chelo), 14.6.55, ( JHB).
CALIGUS PELAMYDIs Kroyer
Dale Roads, one female on mackerel, 30.9.54, (JM).
LEPEOPHTHEIRUS PECTORALIS (O. F. Miller)
Several on gills of dab and flounder (Pleuronectes limanda and
de flesus). 624.40, (RDP).
LEPEOPHTHEIRUS THOMPSONI Baird
One on brill (Rhombus laevis), 6.4.49, (RDP).
LEPEOPHTHEIRUS SALMONIS (Kroyer)
Dale Roads, in net off Point Wood Beach, on sewen (Salmo
trutta), one female, 30.9.54, (JM) ; several with egg sacs, 14.6.55,
( J.H.B).
‘TREBIUS CAUDATUS Kroyer
Dale Roads, on skate in otter trawl; one, September 1948,
(RDP) ; two males and two females on skin near mouth, 21.9.49,
(GO).
268 R. BASSINDALE AND J. H. BARRETT
Sub-Order LERNAEOIDA
Lernezide (RH 227)
LERNAEOCERA BRANCHIALIS (L.) (=Lernaea)
Young females abundant on gills of flounder (Pleuronectes flesus),
6.4.49, (RDP).
Chondracanthide
ACANTHOCHONDRIA CORNUTA (O. F. Miiller)
Four on gills of flounder (Pleuronectes flesus), 6.4.49, (RDP).
ACANTHOCHONDRIA DEPRESSA (T. Scott)
Dale Roads, (RDP).
Lernzxopodide
CHAROPINUS RAMOSUS Kroyer
Castle Beach, Dale Roads, 28.3.48, (R.D.P.).
Class CIRRIPEDIA Barnacles (E 105)
Order THORACICA
Lepadide Stalked barnacles
The species of this family are not local but are washed in alive
on floating objects from warmer seas.
LEPAS ANATIFERA L. Ship’s barnacle (W 68; RY 210; BY
Plate vi)
On several occasions in 1950, ( JHB) ; 24.9.53, (GTJ) 3 31.7.50,
(HJMB). Young specimens were found attached to Ascophyllum
in Crab Bay, Skokholm on 9.7.56, (CRT).
LEpAS FASCICULARIS Ellis and Solander (W 69; BY Plate vi)
Many, 20.7.50, (JHB). ‘This species occurs in small clusters
attached to its own float.
LEPAS PECTINATA Spengler
Gateholm, (RDP).
Verrucide (E 106)
VERRUCA STROEMIA (O. F. Miller) (BY Plate vi)
Musselwick, two; Slip Pier Beach, absent; Castle Beach, a
few ; Gateholm, absent ; Martin’s Haven, rare, 12.4.49, (RDP).
Dale Roads, on back of Maia squinado, 31.3.49, (NWM). SKOMER
—Mew Stone, common, April 1946, (UB). It breeds in the
spring and summer. The genus Verruca is a deep-water genus
and this species extends from 3000 m. to L.W.E.S.T.
Chthamalide (E107; C175; 176; Y272)
CHTHAMALUS STELLATUS (Poli) (BY Plate vi)
Abundant on all exposed rocky shores from above H.W.M.
to M.T.L. and below. Absent in shelter (e.g. Musselwick Point,
Castle Beach and Gateholm (West), 28.3.48, (RDP)). Rare
THE DALE FORT MARINE FAUNA 269
specimens occur near the Gann (2.8.49, NWM) and large speci-
mens were recorded from the Laminaria zone in Crab Bay on
Skokholm (17.9.54, HJM). It is a southern form and breeds in
the summer months. Its distribution in Great Britain is appar-
ently limited to the west coast by winter temperatures.
Balanidae Acorn Barnacles (E107; Y110; 113; H165)
BALANuS BALANUS L. (=8. porcatus) (Darwin 1854, IJ, p. 256)
Musselwick Point, a few, L.W.M., 28.3.48, (RDP); March
1955, (UB): Slip Pier Beach, a few, 28.3.48, (RDP).
This northern species is a sub-littoral form and is a winter
breeder liberating its nauplii in February. It is cross fertilised
and isolated specimens do not breed.
BALANUS CRENATUS Brugiere (BY Plate vi)
The commonest barnacle on _ sub-littoral stones, shells and
crabs. Often found near L.W.M. It has been recorded from
Musselwick, Slip Pier Beach, Castle Beach, Gateholm and Dale
Roads ; and on Skokholm from Crab Bay and South Haven.
It breeds through the spring and summer liberating a large
batch of nauplii in March and smaller numbers throughout the
summer. Newly settled spat was recorded from Castle Beach,
29.5-49, ( JHB).
BALANUS PERFORATUS Brugiére (BY Plate vi)
The largest shore barnacle, occurring in crevices on over-
hanging surfaces on exposed shores. ‘This mediterranean species
occurs only in the south west (of Great Britain) and has, strangely
enough, not been recorded from Ireland. It breeds in the summer
months. It occurs commonly from Point Wood Beach round
Dale Point to Castle Beach, is rare on Great Castle Head but
common on Gateholm. It is common in parts of Skokholm and
Skomer.
BALANUS BALANOIDES (L.) (BY Plate vi)
The commonest British barnacle girdles the whole of the British
Isles from about H.W.N. to M.T.L., often extending towards
L.W.M. It is a northern form and breeds during the winter
liberating its larve mainly in March; settlement occurring in
April. It occurs lower on the shore than Chthamalus but extends
further into shelter and is found in Dale Bay right up to the Gann
Mouth. It is frequently infected with an isopod parasite
Hemioniscus balant.
BALANUS IMPROVISUS Darwin
Recorded only from Skomer (the Basin) this species, typical of
L.W.M. in estuaries and sheltered bays, probably occurs in the
area. Its status requires investigation and the Skomer record
requires confirmation.
270 R. BASSINDALE. AND J. H. BARRETT
BALANUS HAMERI (Ascanius) (Darwin, Cirripedia, 1854, 277)
This large, sub-littoral species is a northern form with a life history
similar to that of B. balanus. The sole record from the area is a single
record-sized specimen from a crab pot off the Smalls (2.6 inches
basal diameter and 1.35 inches high—det. J. P. Harding) 24.10.50.
ELMINIUs MODESTUS Darwin (BY Plate vi).
First recorded at Dale in September 1951 (UCL) the species
is now abundant in Dale Bay from Dale Point to Musselwick.
Occasional specimens have been seen outside e.g. Gunkel, one,
5-752 (EMT); Dale Point, two, March 1955; Angle Bay,
April 1953 (UB). It occurs from L.W.M. to H.W.M. and may
be found among B. balanoides and Ch. stellatus at all levels. It
breeds throughout the year, but at a low rate during winter,
and during summer a generation may occupy only 8 weeks.
The species arrived in this country from New Zealand in 1943
or 1946 and has subsequently spread from the English Channel
to the Scottish borders along both east and west coasts. It was
originally thought that it would compete mainly with Balanus
improvisus since their habitat is similar. However, it seems to
be competing with other species as well and, in addition, to be
occupying areas previously uncolonised by barnacles. For
example, at Dale, it is the only barnacle found on dog whelks.
An interesting feature of barnacle distribution is that Balanus
perforatus does not occur in S.W. Ireland, which should be suited
to it, nor Elminius modestus on Guernsey although it has been
present on the adjacent French coast for some years. It is usually
assumed that shore animals with planktonic larve must lose a
considerable number of their young by dispersal seawards. ‘These
two observations suggest that the loss may not be excessive.
Order RHIZOCEPHALA
These remarkable parasitic barnacles feed by an absorptive
‘root’ system which ramifies throughout the tissues (except
heart and gills) of their decapod hosts. In some hosts this pro-
duces ‘ parasitic castration’. ‘The external part bears no resem-
blance to a barnacle (nor indeed to any other crustacean) but the
larve are typical nauplii which give rise to a typical Cirripede cypris
larva, which then attacks and penetrates the host. The larve
do not feed and in some species the eggs hatch at the cypris stage.
Sacculinidse
SACCULINA CARCINI Thompson (BY Plate vi)
Common on shore crabs (Carcinus maenas) from the sub-littoral
in Dale Roads, and one from Angle Bay.
PELTOGASTER PAGURI Rathke (BY Plate vi)
Slip Pier Beach, one on Eupagurus bernhardus, 28.3.48, (RDP).
THE DALE FORT MARINE FAUNA 271
Clas MALACOSTRACA
The Malacostraca, including as it does the very numerous
species of amphipods, isopods, shrimps, prawns and crabs, is the
most varied of the crustacean groups and is important to the shore
collector as many of the species are large. Development is often
direct and in others the eggs very rarely hatch in so early a stage
as the typical crustacean nauplius—the crab zoea is a much more
developed larval stage.
Sub-Class LEPTOSTRACA (E 108)
NEBALIA BIPES (Fabricius) (BY Plate viii)
This interesting species with its mixture of primitive and
specialised features is characteristic of L.W.M. on the rocky
shore where mud accumulates among gravel and sand in crevices
and pools. It is common at the Gann Stones and has been
recorded from Angle Bay and from Crab Bay on Skokholm. It
is a filter feeder, using its thoracic appendages for this purpose.
Sub-Class PERACARIDA
Order CUMACEA (BY Plate xiii)
Bodotriide
BoDOTRIA SCORPIOIDES (Montagu)
Plankton, at night, males only, 12.9.54, (GTJ).
IPHINOE TRISPINOSA (Goodsir) (BY Plate xiii)
Plankton, night, 21.9.52, (GTYJ).
Diastylide
DIASTYLIS RATHKEI (Kroyer)
Dale Sands, (RDP).
Order TANAIDACEA (E 109)
Apseudide
APSEUDES TALPA (Montagu) (E 109)
Dale Fort Beach, one in Laminaria holdfast, 26.3.56 : SkoMER—
North Haven, one, April 1946, (UB).
Tanaide
TANAIS CHEVREUXI Dollfus
SKOKHOLM—North and South Havens, abundant in crevices,
August 1955, (JG).
TANAIs CAVOLINI Milne Edwards (BY Plate xiii)
Slip Pier, one in Cladophora, 22.3.56, (UB).
212 R. BASSINDALE AND J. H. BARRETT
Order ISOPODA (E 109, 110)
Anthuridz
ANTHURA GRACILIS (Montagu)
Dale Roads, dredge, one, September, 1948, (RDP).
Anceids
PARAGNATHIA FORMICA (Hess) (Bate and Westwood, 1868, 77, 203,
as Anceus haladai Halliday)
Dale, September 1951, (UCL).
Gnathiide (E 113)
GNATHIA MAXILLARIS (Montagu) E113; H1i169; BY Plate viii)
This ectoparasitic species has easily distinguishable males and
females and larval stages. ‘The adults live in crevices,or burrows
on the shore and reproduce but do not feed. Development is
direct and the praniza larva—the feeding stage—attacks fish and
sucks blood.
Females have been taken at Castle Beach (one) and Longoar
Bay (eleven) ; males at Longoar Bay (one); praniza larve at
Slip Pier Beach (one on Blennius ocellaris), Point Wood Beach
(one on a blenny), Dale Roads (one in dredge) and South Haven,
Skomer (three on a rockling).
Cirolanide (E 114)
CIROLANA CRANCHI Leach (E 114)
Brig Stones, one (probably washed up), 21.9.53, (EMS).
EURYDICE PULCHRA Leach (E 114, BY Plate viii)
Watwick Bay, in sand just below H.W.N.T., 27.4.48, (NAH) :
Great Castle Head, 26.7.50, (MRY): West Dale Bay, in pool,
M.T.L., 5.3.55, (JM): Marloes Sands, abundant in pools,
H.W ON. T.. 25.9:419) @DVWs)r
EURYDICE SPINIGERA Hansen
Plankton, 25.8.53, (det. I. Gordon), ( JHB).
Limnoriide (E 114)
LimnorRIA LIGNORUM (Rathke) (E114; Y3174, 184-186; RY
144-145; BY Plate viii)
Common in the wood of a wreck at Musselwick, 1948 onwards.
A wood-boring animal of economic importance as it eats away
wooden piles, etc.
Spheromatide (E 115)
SPHAEROMA SERRATUM (Fabricius) (E 115)
Occasional in brackish pools on the Gann Saltings, in pools
and crevices at Black Rocks, Point Wood Beach and Castle Beach.
THE DALE FORT MARINE FAUNA 273
SPHAEROMA RUGICAUDA Leach (E115; BY Plate viii)
A species with a brackish water habit. Abundant in the
Gann Saltings pools to above Mullock Bridge, and in the Castle
Beach stream at H.W.S.T.
CYMODOCE TRUNCATA (Montagu)
Off Stack Rock, one, dead, dredged, 18.9.53 ; Dale Beach,
in Laminaria holdfasts cast up by storm, 22.9.53, (EMS).
DYNAMENE BIDENTATA (Adams) (=Naesa) (E115; BY Plate viii)
Dale Fort Beach, several, March and July, 1949, (NWM) :
Castle Beach, one L.W.S.T., 11.4.49, (RDP); several females,
8.4.50, (RG) ; four in crevice, H.W.M., 23.3.56, (UB): Stack
Rock, one male, one female, 25.9.53, (EMS). SxkoxHoLtm—
South Haven, in crevices, 3.8.50, (HJMB); August 1955, (JG):
Crab Bay, occasional, 14.9.54, (HJM).
CAMPECOPEA HIRSUTA (Montagu)
West Dale, abundant in Pygmaea pumila with Littorina neritoides
and Lasaea rubra, 11.3.56, (JM): SxkoxHotm—Peter’s Bay,
abundant in crevices, August 1955, ( JG).
Idoteide (E 112)
The systematics of the genus JIJdotea has been clarified by
Naylor, E. (Journ. Mar. Biol. Assoc. U.K. 34, 467-494, 1955).
IDOTEA BALTICA (Pallas) (E112; BY Plate vii)
Point Wood Beach, Slip Pier Beach and buoy nearby, Castle
Beach, Great Castle Head, Angle Bay. SkoxHotm—Crab Bay,
Peter’s Bay, Dumbell Bay, and South Haven. Common among
Pelvetia, Fucus spiralis (DWS), Laminaria holdfasts (UCL) and
red weeds, (JHB). March, June, September.
IDOTEA EMARGINATA (Fabricius) (E112, BY Plate vii)
Great Castle Head, 26.7.50, (MRY): SKoxkHotm—Peter’s
Bay, 121.7555; -(KST).
IDOTEA GRANULOSA Rathke (E113, BY Plate vii)
Dale Beach, 20.11.48, (NWM). Sxkoxuotm—Crab Bay, 23.4.52,
(KJM): Peter’s Bay, several, 21.7.55, (KST): North Haven,
on Corallina, August 1955, (JG).
IDOTEA CHELIPES (Pallas) (E113 as viridis, BY Plate vii)
Gann Saltings, 24.3.49, (DWS) : Slip Pier Beach, 20.4.49, (RG).
SKOKHOLM—Peter’s Bay, several, L.W.M., 1.7.55, (KST).
IDOTEA PELAGICA Leach (E 112)
Buoy off Slip Pier Beach, in Laminaria holdfasts, September
1948, (UCL) : Great Castle Head, 26.7.50, (MRY). SkoKHOLM
—Peter’s Bay, one, 12.4.48, (BW).
274 R. BASSINDALE AND J. H. BARRETT
IDOTEA LINEARIS (L.) (E113; BY Plate vii)
Musselwick, one, 26.3.52, (NWM): Dale Sands, one male,
one female, im pool,’ L.W.S.1.,;'14.4.49, (RDP
Arcturide
ARCTURUs (Latreille) s
Gann Flats, one on weed, 23.9.49, (UCL) : Dale Roads, one
in dredge, 16.9.49, (GO). |
ASTACILLA LONGICORNIS (Sowerby)
Gann Flats, 24.9.50, (EMS); one male, L.W.S.T., 4.10.56, (JM).
ARCTURELLA DAMNONIENSIS (Stebbing)
Stack Rock, one breeding female, on sponge with Plumularia
setacea, L.W.S.T., 25.9.53, (EMS).
Janiride (E 110)
JANIRA MACULOSA Leach (E 110)
Stack Rock, one male among sponges and hydroids, L.W.S.T.,
25.9.53, (EMS). SxkomeErR—South Haven, one, April 1946, (UB).
JAERA ALBIFRONS Leach (E111 as marina, BY Plate vii)
A species characteristic of places where fresh water flows over
the beach. Often found with Procerodes ulvae.
Gann Flats, Gann Estuary (Mullock Bridge), Dale Beach (in
fresh water flow), Slip Pier Beach, Dale Fort Beach. SkoxHoLm
—North Haven, H.W.N.T. to L.W.N.T. March, April, August,
November. In berry, 28.4.50.
JAERA NORDMANNI (Rathke) (E 111)
SKOKHOLM—South Haven, in crevices, H.W.M., 31.7.50,
(HJ MB).
Munnide (E 111)
MuNNA LimicoLa G. O. Sars
Stack Rock, one among sponges and Plumularia setacea, 25.9.53,
(EMS).
Ligiide
LIGEA OCEANICA (L.) Sea slater (E111; Y 28; BY Plate vii)
Common near and above H.W.M. on all rocky coasts, (and
right up to the cliff top at Mad Bay on Skokholm). !
Bopyridz
BopyRus FOUGEROUXI (Giard and Bonnier) (=B. squallarum)
Dale Roads, one on Leander in trawl, 1.9.49, (GO). This
pale green parasite lives in the gill chambers of pues and. is
called colloquially ‘ face-ache ’.
THE DALE FORT MARINE FAUNA 275
Cryptoniscidz
HEMIONISCUS BALANI (Spence Bate) (E 116)
Slip Pier, one in 20 Balanus balanoides, H.W.M., 28.3.48, (RDP);
ome, september 1948, (UCL); three, 3.4.49, (RDP). SkomeR
—South Haven, common; North Haven, rare; Midland Isle,
rare, April 1946, (UB).
Parasitic in the mantle cavity of Balanus balanoides. Infection
rates are very variable and have ranged up to 100 per cent. in
some places on British coasts.
Order AMPHIPODA. (E116, 117)
The amphipods are extremely numerous both in species and
individuals in a wide variety of marine and brackish environ-
ments. They are detritus feeders, scavengers of plant and animal
remains, and also scrape diatom films, etc. Many have specialised
habitats.
Sub-Order GAMMARIDEA
Lysianasside
LYSIANASSA CERATINA A. O. Walker
SKOKHOLM—Hog Bay, L.W.M. in shingle, 27.3.52, (ECJ).
ORCHOMENELLA NANA (Kroyer) (BY Plate ix)
Brig Stones, 28.8.50, (det. I. Gordon) ; Dale Beach and Gann
Flats, at least a dozen occasions, July, August, 1953, ( JHB).
Common in cast skeletons of Carcinus maenas.
Ampeliscide
AMPELISCA BREVICORNIS (A. Costa)
Gann Flats, Dale Beach, 28.3.48, (RDP); occasional up to
8 mm. long, in sand with shingle, L.W.S.T., 17.11.55, (AD).
Haustoriide (E 120; BY Plate ix & x)
BATHYPOREIA PELAGICA (Bate) (Y 242, zonation; BY Plate ix)
Marloes Sands, one in sand between rocks covered with Por-
wiyra, L.W.N.Y., 13.11.55, (AD).
UROTHOE BREVICORNIS Bate
Dale Beach, one in sand with fine pebbles, 17.11.55, (AD).
Leucothoide
LEUCOTHOE sp. (? incisa D. Robertson)
Gann Flats, one in shingly sand, 17.11.55, (AD).
Stenothoide
STENOTHOE MONOCULOIDES (Montagu)
Castle Beach, several in rock pool, H.W.N.T., 26.3.49, (DWS).
SKOKHOLM—Peter’s Bay, in Laminaria holdfasts, 11.5.56, (AD).
276 R. BASSINDALE AND J. H. BARRETT
‘Calliopiide
APHERUSA BISPINOSA (Bate)
Marloes Sands, one female on Porphyra, L.W.N.T., 13.11.55,
(AD)
APHERUSA JURINEI (Milne Edwards)
Marloes Sands, common, 3 mm. long, on Corallina in pool among
boulders, L.W.N.T., 13.11.55, (AD). SkokHo_tm—North Haven,
Crab Bay, Hog Bay ; on Gigartina, Himanthalia and in Laminaria
pools; L.W.S.T.; September, October, 1955: North Haven,
on Laminaria, 11.4.56, (AD). Breeding, September, October, (AD).
CALLIOPIUS CRENULATUS Chevreux and Fage (=TJaevusculus)
SkOKHOLM—North Haven, Crab Bay, Hog Bay, on weed and
in pools; L.W.S.T.; September, October, 1955; Peter’s Bay,
under stones on muddy shingle, L.W.S.T., 26.4.56, (AD). Breed-
ing, September, (AD).
Atylidz
NOTOTROPIS SWAMMERDAMI (Milne Edwards) (BY Plate ix)
Dale Beach, in loose weed on muddy sand with Gammarus
locusta, 17.11.55, (AD). SKokHo~tm—North Haven, Crab Bay,
Peter’s Bay, on Himanthalia, Laminaria etc. ; L.W.S.T. ; September,
October, 1955 (AD); Peter’s Bay, in muddy shingle, L.W.S.T.,
26.4.56, (AD). Breeding, April, September, (AD).
Gammaride (E 117)
The standard amphipod work by Chevreux and Fage is no
longer adequate for the genera Gammarus and Marinogammarus,
and even Reid’s more recent key is out of date for some species.
Some of the older records given here require confirmation.
GAMMARELLUS HOMARI (Fabricius)
Slip Pier Beach, West Dale Bay, Marloes Sands, Dale Roads.
SKOKHOLM—North Haven, Crab Bay, Wreck Cove. Occasional
near L.W.M. and below. In pools, in sand, on Corallina, Porphyra
and Laminaria. Breeding, March and September.
MELITA PALMATA (Montagu)
Gann Saltings, Gann Mouth, West Dale Bay. SkoxHoLm—
North Haven, South Haven, Peter’s Bay, Hog Bay, Crab Bay.
Occasional, L.W.M. In pools, among weed and in shingle.
March, April, September.
MELITA HERGENSIS_ Reid
SKOKHOLM—AI] bays with M. palmata, (confirmed by D. M.
Reid), September 1955, (AD).
Marra oTHonis (Milne Edwards) |
Off Dale Fort, dredged in 12 fathoms, 23.3.49, (DWS).
THE DALE FORT MARINE FAUNA 277
GAMMARUS LocusTA (L.) (E188, BY Plate ix)
Gann Saltings, 29.3.49, (DWS) : Dale Beach, small specimens
common in loose weed on muddy sand, with WNototropis swammer-
domepleNVIM., 17.11.55, (AD): Castle Beach, (RDP).
SKOKHOLM—Crab Bay, L.W.S.T.; North Haven, one;
September, October, 1955, (AD).
GAMMARUS ZADDACHI Sexton
Gann Estuary, below Mullock Bridge, 29.3.49, (DWS) : Gann
Saltings, several, 8.4.49, (RDP): the sub-species G.z. zaddach
Spooner, common on seaweed among mussels and in crevices
from Little Milford to Mill Bay, (BTH). SkokHo~tm—abundant
in a brackish pool above H.W.S.T. on the cliffs west of Frank’s
Rott, 14.52, (EC]); absent in 1955 (AD). An estuarine
species with several varieties.
GAMMARUS DUEBENI Lilljeborg
Marloes Sands, in stream above H.W.S.T., 25.3.49, (DWS) :
SKOKHOLM—in stream at Hog Bay, 24.3.52, (EJ); stream at
South Haven and Orchid Stream, 21.9.55, (AD); stream at
Tabernacle, August 1955, (JG); East stream, 15.5.56, (JG) ;
in brackish pools above H.W.M. around coast, 1955, (AD). A
brackish and freshwater species.
MARINOGAMMARUS MARINUS (Leach) (E 117)
Gann Estuary, from mouth upwards for several hundred yards:
Slip Pier Beach. SkoKHOLM—common or abundant, H.W.N.T.
to L.W.M., Crab Bay, Little Bay, Peter’s Bay, North Haven,
South Haven. March, April, July, August, September.
MARINOGAMMARUS CBTUSATUS (Dahl)
Slip Pier Beach, Castle Beach. SKoxHotm—Hog Bay, Crab
Bay, North Haven, South Haven, Peter’s Bay. Common, M.T.L.
to L.W.S.T., under stones, in Laminaria holdfasts. Commoner
than M. marinus at L.W.M. on Skokholm. Breeding, March,
April.
MARINOGAMMARUS FINMARCHICUS (Dahl)
Slip Pier Beach. SkoxHo~tm—South Haven, Peter’s Bay,
Hog Bay. Common, under stones and in shingle, M.T.L. to
LW:s-T.
MARINOGAMMARUS STOERENSIS (Reid)
Marloes Sands, in pools at H.W.N.T. where stream flows in,
25.3.49, (DWS). SKoKHoLM—Hog Bay, pool with fresh water,
ey iNed 5) 299.52, JG); 115.4.56, (AD): North Haven,
15.4.56, (AD). A species characteristic of H.W.M. where fresh
water flows onto the beach.
278 R. BASSINDALE AND J. H. BARRETT
Dexaminids
DEXAMINE SPINOSA (Montagu)
Dale Beach, occasional, up to 5 mm. long, in sand and on loose
weed, LWW Mies 07 .U lias ae
DEXAMINE THEA Boeck
SKOKHOLM—Peter’s Bay, common under stones on muddy
shingle, L.W.S.T., 26.4.56 ; North Haven, in Laminaria holdfasts,
11.4.56, (AD). Breeding, April, May, (AD).
Talitride Sand-hoppers (E 118)
TALITRUS SALTATOR (Montagu) (E118; Y 28; BY Plate ix)
Dale Beach, in weed litter, H.W.M., 4.10.55, (AD): Slip
Pier Beach, Castle Beach, September 1948, (UCL). SxoxHotm
—North Haven, 1.8.47, (MHW) ; absent, 1955, (AD).
ORCHESTIA MEDITERRANEA A. Costa
Dale, March 1949, (DWS).
ORCHESTIA GAMMARELLA (Pallas) (E118, BY Plate ix)
Gann Estuary, Dale Beach, Slip Pier Beach, Castle Beach,
West Dale Bay. SKokHo~m—all round. SkomEer—North and
South Havens. Mipianp IsLte—west end. In weed litter under
stones and in mud: also from brackish pools and in streams.
From H.W.M. to the cliff tops on Skokholm wherever damp,
and at the mouth of a rabbit burrow 150 feet above sea level on
Midland Isle.
TALORCHESTIA DESHAYESEI (Audouin)
Dale Beach, males, females and immatures in weed litter and
underlying sandy shingle, H.W.M.; with Orchestia gammarella
and T. saltaior, 4.10.55; with TZ. saliator 7.11.55 eye
The sand hoppers feed at night and shelter in the sand or sea-
weed debris by day. In an Australian species this rhythm has
been shown to be controlled by light so that by suitable illumina-
tion the times of feeding and resting can be reversed: but an
internal rhythm is also involved since in complete darkness the
diurnal rhythm is maintained for several days.
Some species have a ‘compass’ reaction so that if displaced
landwards they will migrate seawards on the compass bearing
appropriate to their own coastline. But if transported to a coastline
of the ‘ wrong ’ direction their movement is still in the same compass
direction and will not take them back to the strange shore.
HYALE NILSsONI (Rathke)
Marloes Sands, frequent at H.W.N.T., in pools where stream
flows, and on rocks at L.W.N.T. with mussels and barnacles.
SKOKHOLM—widespread at M.T.L. on Fucus, green algae and in
crevices. Breeding, May, September, October.
THE DALE FORT MARINE FAUNA 279
HyYALE PONTICA Rathke
SKOKHOLM—South coast, west of Frank’s Point. Common in
paolsypclow M.T.L.- 1.4.52, (ECJ) ; not found, 1955, (AD).
HYALE PERIERI (Lucas)
SKOKHOLM—South coast and Wild Goose Bay, rock faces,
I2yveM. and in pool, M.T.L. (confirmed by D. M. Reid),
September 1955; Crab Bay rocks, 1956. Breeding, May, (AD).
Aoride
AORA TYPICA Kroyer
Gann Flats, one male 4 mm. long, one female 3 mm. long, in
Laminaria holdfast with annelids, 17.11.55, (AD).
LEMBOS WEBSTERI (Bate)
SKOKHOLM—Peter’s Bay, two, 11.5.56; Hog Bay, breeding,
7.9.56; in Laminaria holdfasts, (AD).
Amphithoide (E 118)
AMPHITHOE RUBRICATA (Montagu) (E119; BY Plate ix)
Black Rocks, Dale Beach, Dale Fort Beach, Castle Beach,
West Dale Bay, Dale Roads (dredged in 12 fathoms). Rare.
L.W.M., lives in a tube under rocks and on weeds ; often in pools.
PLEONEXES GAMMAROIDES' Bate
SKOKHOLM—North Haven, on Himanthalia, L.W.S.T., October
1955, (AD).
Jassidz
The Jassids live in tubes attached to weeds and are common
on Laminaria.
JAssA FALCATA (Montagu) (BY Plate x)
SKOKHOLM—North Haven, Crab Bay, Hog Bay, on weed,
EWN to LewW.S.1.; September, October, 1955; North
Haven, on Laminaria, 11.4.56, (AD).
PARAJASSA PELAGICA (Leach)
Dale Roads, one, trawled, April, (det. I. Gordon), ( JHB).
Corophiide (E 119)
ERICHTHONIUS BRASILIENSIS (Dana)
Gann Flats, L.W.M., 28.3.49, (DWS): Dale Beach, one in
sang. with shingle, L.W.S.1T., 17.11.55, (AD).
CoROPHIUM VOLUTATOR (Pallas) (E119, BY Plate x)
Gann Saltings and Estuary, abundance varies from year to year.
A common saltmarsh and estuarine, mud-living, species inhabiting
a small-U-shaped burrow. Yonge (p. 256) describes feeding.
280 R. BASSINDALE AND J. H. BARRETT
Cheluridz
CHELURA TEREBRANS Philippi (Y 186; BY Plate vii)
Gann Stones, in wreck with Linnoria lignorum, 10.4.49, (RDP) :
Dale Beach, in drift wood, 22.9.53, (EMS).
Sub-Order HYPERIIDEA
Hyperiide
HypPERIA GALBA (Montagu) (H167; BY Plate x)
In stomach and radial canals of Rhizostoma pulmo, 16.6.50,
( JHB) and 22.3.56, (AD).
Sub-Order CAPRELLIDEA
Caprellide Skeleton shrimps (E 119; W65; Y 76; RY 61)
PHTISIGCA MARINA Slabber
Dale Roads, one on red weed, sub-littoral, 17.9.53, (EMS).
PSEUDOPROTELLA PHASMA (Montagu)
Musselwick, (RDP).
CAPRELLA ACANTHIFERA Leach
Slip Pier Beach, Great Castle Head, Martin’s Haven, Stack
Rock. SKokHoLtmM—Hog Bay, Crab Bay. Occasional, L.W.S.T.
In Laminaria holdfast, on Plumularia setacea and other hydroids.
March, July, August, September. Breeding, September.
CAPRELLA LINEARIS (L.) (BY Plate x)
Dale, September 1950 UC WW):
CAPRELLA FRETENSIS Stebbing
Stack Rock, one breeding female on Plumularia setacea on sponge,
L.W.S.T., 25.9.53, (EMS).
Order SCHIZOPODA (=Mysidacea, E 121)
Myside
The delicate mysids are detritus and filter teedersmiwinien
swim by means of their thoracic expodites close to the bottom,
often rising into the plankton at night. Some species occur in
vast numbers at the edge of the tide on estuarine banks.
SIRIELLA ARMATA (Milne Edwards) (E 122)
Mill Bay, one male in pool, 18.9.52, (EMS and GTYJ).
SIRIELLA JALTENSIS Czerniavsky
In pools. Slip Pier Beach, one, 28.3.48, (RDP) Millay,
several, 18.9.52, (EMS and GTYJ).
LEPTOMYSIS LINGVURA (G. O. Sars)
Mill Bay, several in pools, 18.9.52, (EMS and GTJ).
THE DALE FORT MARINE FAUNA 281
ScuisTomysis sprrirus (G. O. Sars) (E 122)
Plankton, common in night haul, 27.9.50, (EMS). Gann
Flats, water’s edge, March 1955, (UB).
PrauNus FLExuosus (Miiller) (E122; Y29; H 166)
Black Rocks and Gann Flats, common at water’s edge, 20.9.52,
(GE).
NEOMYSIS INTEGER (Leach)
Pickleridge lagoons, abundant, 8.4.49, (RDP) : Gann Estuary,
April 1949, (NWM).
Order DECAPODA Crabs, prawns, shrimps, lobsters, hermit-
crabs (E 123-5; larve H170, 171)
Sub-Order NATANTIA Prawns, shrimps.
Tribe CARIDEA
Hippolytide (E 125)
HIPPOLYTE VARIANS Leach (E126; RY 180, 182)
Black Rocks, one in sand, 28.3.48, (RDP): Gann Stones,
commen) im pools, 28.93.48, (RDP); 23.9.49, (UCL). This is
the small prawn famous for its ability to change colour.
SPIRONTOCARIS CRANCHI (Leach) (E 126)
Musselwick Point, in pools, L.W.S.T., 28.3.48, (RDP).
Alpheide (E 126)
ATHANAS NITESCENS (Montagu) (E126; Y 108; BY Plate xi)
Occasional. Musselwick, Castle Beach, Martin’s Haven,
SKOMER—North Haven. In berry, 7.8.56, ( JHB).
Palemonide (Prawns, E 126)
PALAEMON SERRATUS (Pennant) (=Leander, E127; W62; DW
Ap meNagee RY 317, 995; BY Plate x1)
Common in Dale Bay (Musselwick, Gann Mouth, Dale; Dale
Roads) : up to 5 inches, 19.7.51, usually 24 inches. Angle Bay.
March, April, June, July, August. In berry, 15.6.50, 20.8.52,
( JHB).
PALAEMON ELEGANS Rathke (=Leander squilla, E127; Y 76, 77,
96)
In rock pools. Musselwick, Gann Flats, Slip Pier Beach,
Castle Beach, Great Castle Head. SkoxkHotm—South Haven,
Crab Bay, Peter’s Bay. SxkomerR—North Haven. March, July,
August, September.
PALAEMONETES VARIANS (Leach) (BY Plate x1)
Gann Estuary and Saltings. Common. March, April, August,
September, November. A brackish water species.
282 R. BASSINDALE AND J. H. BARRETT
Crangonide (E 127)
CRANGON vuLGARIS Fabricius Common shrimp (E127; Y 29,
PAT 5 NY (317,335,501 DY Platessa)
From Gann Stones to Black Rocks and in the Gann Estuary
up to Mullock Bridge. In sand and pools. The species has a
tolerance for reduced salinity, particularly in summer.
PHILOCERAS FASCIATUS (Risso)
Musselwick, L.W.M., 23.9.53, (GITJ) : Dale, September 1951,
(UCW).
Sub-Order REPTANTIA Lobsters, hermit-crabs and crabs.
Tribe PALINURA
Palinuride (E 127)
PALINURUS VULGARIS Latreille Crawfish, spiny- or rock-lobster
(E127; RY 133, 316,-396 >. H 170%; BY Plate
Common in lobster pots, 1950, ( JHB). |
Tribe ASTACURA
Nephropside (E 128)
NEPHROPS NORVEGICA (L.) Norway prawn or lobster (W 53 ;
RY 316, 321)
Abundant in trawls beyond the Smalls, 28.8.51, ( JHB).
Homarus vuLcaris Milne Edwards Lobster (E128; DW 78 ;
Y too ;> RY 3145 301, :) BY) Riaten 174)
Common in lobster pots. 195: was a bad year, ( JHB).
Tribe ANOMURA
Galatheide (E 128-9) Squat-lobsters
GALATHEA INTERMEDIA Lilljeborg
Dale Roads, one in dredge, 28.8.56, (GEB).
GALATHEA SQUAMIFERA Leach (E129; RY 38; BY Plate 14)
Musselwick, rare; Point Wood Beach, common; Castle
Beach and Great Castle Head, rare. In berry, 7.3.50, 3.4.50,
( JHB).
GALATHEA SsTRIGOSA (L.) (E 129; Yu101; BY Plate 14)
Musselwick Point, one, L.W.O.S.T., 28.3.48, (RDP). SKoMER
—Mew Stone, one, April 1946, (UB).
Porcellanide (E 130)
The two porcelain crabs are filter-feeding species.
PORCELLANA PLATYCHELES (Pennant) (E130; Y 31; BY Plate 14)
Very common under boulders near L.W.M. Musselwick
Point, Gann Stones, Point Wood Beach, Slip Pier Beach, Dale
wee.
THE DALE FORT MARINE FAUNA 283
Fort Beach, Castle Beach, Martin’s Haven, Angle Bay. SKOKHOLM
—Crab Bay, Peter’s Bay, Little Bay, South Haven. SkOMER—
North Haven, South Haven, Mew Stone. March, April, June
pomecorempcr. Absent at Brie Stones, 11.4.49, (JHB). In
berry, April, June.
PoRCELLANA LONGIcoRNIs (L.) (E130; W123; RY 253;
H 165; BY Plate 14)
Not so common as P. platycheles. Under boulders near L.W.M.
Musselwick Point, Gann Stones, Brig Stones, Point Wood Beach,
Slip Pier Beach, Castle Beach, Gateholm, Angle Bay, Dale Roads
(trawled). SKkoKHOLM—Crab Bay, Peter’s Bay. Sxkomer—North
Haven, South Haven and Mew Stone. ‘This species is commoner
at Musselwick Point than P. platycheles but less common in most
other places. At the Brig Stones it disappears where mud gives
way to sand and gravel.
Tribe THALASSINIDEA
Callianasside Burrowing prawns (E 130)
CALLIANASSA (CHERAMUS) SUBTERRANEA (Montagu) (E 131 ;
Y 252)
Brig Stones, one in mud of rock pool, L.W.S.T., 3.4.54, (UB).
Tribe PAGURIDEA
Paguride Hermit-crabs (E 131)
EUPAGURUS BERNHARDUs (L.) (E131; W061; DW136; Y 30,
163); BY Plate 15)
Not uncommon. Musselwick Point, Gann Flats, Black Rocks,
Point Wood Beach, Slip Pier Beach, Castle Beach, Gateholm,
Dale Roads (trawled), Angle Bay. Skomer—South Haven,
North Haven (dredged). A specimen from the Slip Pier Beach
had Peltogaster, (RDP).
Most intertidal specimens are small but full grown specimens
of this species form the basis of a very interesting association.
The crab occupies an empty whelk shell (Buccinum undatum), to
which may be attached a variety of ordinary rock-living barnacles,
tube worms or hydroids; but in addition there may be more
specific associates :—the anemone, Calliactis parasitica ; the worm,
Nereis fucata (within the shell) ; the hydroid, Hydractinea echinata,
or occasionally, Podocoryne cornea, (instead of the anemone) ;
and the barnacle, Alcippe lampas (in a burrow in the shell itself).
The sponge, Suberztes domuncula, is also often present.
EUPAGURUS PRIDEAUXI (Leach) (E132; DW 136)
Off Stack Fort, one with Adamsia, in berry, 6.7.56, ( JHB).
284 R. BASSINDALE AND J. H. BARRETT
Tribe BRACHYURA Crabs
Leucosiidz
EBALIA TUBEROSA (Pennant)
Gunkel, one under boulder, L.W.S.T., 14.5.53 3; one, 14.5.53,
(JM).
EBALIA TUMEFACTA (Montagu)
Dredged on gravel near Stack Rock, one, 17.940; (0EL) ;
one male, 19.09.53, (EMS); one, 6.7.56; (jab e
Corystide
CORYSTES CASSIVELAUNUS (Pennant) (DW 32; Y 225; RY 64;
BY Plate xm)
Occasionally found in sand at L.W.S.T., but usually dredged
or trawled. Dale Roads, Black Rocks, Gann Flats. SKkomer—
North and South Havens. March, April, September. In berry,
24.9.49, (UCL).
Atelecyclide
ATELECYCLUS SEPTEMDENTATUS (Montagu)
Occasional. Dredged in Dale Roads and off Watch House
Point. One, on Lithothamnion in pool, Great Castle Head.
Pirimelide
PIRIMELA DENTICULATA (Montagu) (E133; BY Plate xii)
Haven, one, dredged, 15.4.49, (RDP).
Cancridze
CaNCcER PAGURUS L. Edible crab (E134; W55; DW 24, 42,
114.3. Y 1535) RY 38, 117, 190; BY Plotewea
Large specimens are from the sub-littoral (Dale Roads, in pots
and 8S. Hook to Gelliswick, in trawl) : small specimens occur
occasionally on the shore—Gann Stones, Point Wood Beach,
Slip Pier Beach, Dale Fort Beach, Castle Beach, Gateholm, Angle
Bay. SkoxHotmM—Crab Bay (abundant), Peter’s Bay, North
Haven. Sxkomer—South Haven, North Haven, Mew Stone.
March, April, July, August. In berry, 30.5.50, (EMT).
Portunide Swimming Crabs (E 132)
PoRTUNUS PUBER (L.) Devil crab or Velvet fiddler crab (E 132 ;
W 57, 58; Wier; VY 155,\/162.°— BY. Plage smc
Abundant under boulders near L.W.M. Gann Stones, Gann
Flats, Dale Beach, Point Wood Beach, Slip Pier Beach, Dale Fort
Beach, in trawl between S. Hook and Gelliswick, in lobster pot
at West Block House. SxkoxHotm—Little Bay, Peter’s Bay, Crab
Bay. Skomer—North Haven, South Haven, Mew Stone. March,
April, May, July, August, September.
THE DALE FORT MARINE FAUNA 285
Portunus ARcUATUS Leach
Slip Pier, in Laminaria holdfast on buoy, September, 1948,
(UCL). Dale Roads, trawl, 6.4.49, (RDP) ; July, 1949, (GO) ;
dredge, 31.3.55, (JM).
PorRTUNUS PUSILLUS Leach
Dale Roads, dredge, one, in berry, 12.4.54, (JM).
PoRTUNUS MARMOREUS Leach (E 133)
Dale Beach, March 1949, (NWM); (RDP): Dale Roads,
dredge, 28.3.48 (RDP) ; September 1948, (UCL) : Block House
Point, in lobster pot, 11.4.56, (JM).
PoRTUNUS DEPURATOR (L.) (E133; DW 24; (BY Plate 15)
Dale Roads and S. Hook to Gelliswick, in trawl and dredge.
Common. March, April, May. In berry, 15.4.49 and 7.5.51.
Carcinus MAENAS (L.) Shore, common, dog, or green crab (E133 ;
RVoges INV 24: Y 26,154; RY 46; H172; BY Plate 15)
Ubiquitous, including the Gann Estuary to Mullock Bridge
and the Gann Saltings. Pairing was noted in the Gann Estuary,
24.9.49, (UCL) and females in berry in March and April. The
species has a marked tolerance for estuarine conditions.
PORTUMNUS LATIPES (Pennant) (=P. variegatus)
Marloes Sands, one in sand, L.W.S.T., 21.8.55, (GEB).
Xanthide (E 134)
XANTHO IncIsus Leach (E134, Y 154, BY Plate xii)
Common at Castle Beach, Gateholm ; Skomer—North and
South Havens. Occasional at Gann Stones, Dale Beach, Point
Wood Beach, Slip Pier Beach, Watwick Bay : SkokHotmM—Peter’s
Bay, Crab Bay, South Haven, Dumbbell Bay: Skomer—Mew
Stone. Under boulders near L.W.M. March, April, May,
August, September. In berry, April, May. One specimen at
Gann Stones had a forked dactylopodite on the chela.
XANTHO HYDROPHILUS (Herbst) (E 135)
Gann Stones, 28.3.48, (RDP); one, 12.10.50, (EMT): Gate-
holm, 28.3.48, (RDP). SkoxkHo~tm—Crab Bay Rocks, one,
26.3.48, (PD). L.W.S.T. There is some confusion regarding
the synonomy of this species: see the Plymouth Fauna list.
PILUMNUS HIRTELLUS (L.) (BY Plate xii)
Common at Castle Beach, Gateholm and Stack Rock. Rare
at Musselwick Point, Slip Pier Beach, Martin’s Haven. SKoK-
HOLM—between Stack and Neck, Crab Bay. SkomeER—North
and South Haven. L.W.S.T. under stones and in Laminaria
holdfasts. In berry, 4.4.46.
286 R. BASSINDALE AND J. H. BARRETT
Pinnotheride (E 135)
PINNOTHERES PiIsuM (L.) Pea crab (E135; BY Plate 16)
Lives in the mantle cavity of mussels. One female in a trawled
Modiolus modiolus, Dale Roads, 6.4.49, (RDP). Angle Bay,
April 1953, (UB).
Maiide Spider crabs (E 135-6)
A feature of the spider crabs is their tolerance to growths on
the shell. Maza often has barnacles but some of the smaller
species carry polyzoa, hydroids, sponges, worm-tubes and sea
weeds in such abundance as to hide the crab on the sea bed.
It seems to be a form of camoufiage.
MAIA sQuINADO (Herbst) Large or spiny spider crab (W 509 ;
DW o2;. BY. Plate716)
A sub-littoral species common in the trawl in Dale Roads.
In some years very common in lobster pots all along the coast
and occasionally from L.W.S.T. at Dale.
EURYNOME ASPERA (Pennant) (BY Plate- 16)
One dredged on shell gravel off Stack Rock, 18.9.53, (GTJ).
Hyas coarctatus Leach
Dale Beach, 28.3.48, (RDP) : off Stack Rock, on gravel, one
male, one female, 6.7.56, ( JHB).
Hyas ARENEus (L.) (E136; Y 155; BY Plate 16)
Gann Stones, 28.3.48, (RDP).
INACHUS DORYNCHUS Leach (E 136)
Musselwick, one male, one female, L.W.S.T., 14.4.49, (RDP) :
Dale Roads, dredge, March 1949, (NWM).
MACROPODIA ROSTRATA (L.) (E136; BY Plate 16)
Abundant in the dredge in Dale Roads and occasional at
L.W.S.T. from Musselwick to Black Rocks. In berry, 6.3.50,
( JHB).
Sub-Phylum ARACHNIDA
Class ACARINA
Order PROSTIGMATA
Halacaride
RHOMBOGNATHUS sSETOSUS Lohmann
SKOKHOLM—Abundant on Entermorpha near Purple Cave,
August 1955, (JG).
RHOMBOGNATHUS (RHOMBOGNATHIDES) PASCENS Lohmann
SKOKHOLM—South Haven, rare in Laminaria holdfast, August
1955, (JG).
THE DALE FORT MARINE FAUNA 287
RHOMBOGNATHUS (RHOMBOGNATHIDES) MERRIMANNI Newell
SkOKHOLM—North Haven and Crab Bay, common in Laminaria
holdfasts ; Peter’s Bay, common in intertidal crevices, August
1955, (JG).
RHOMBOGNATHUS (RHOMBOGNATHOPSIS) ARMATUS Lohmann
SKOKHOLM—Crab Bay, common in intertidal crevices, August
1955, (JG).
HALACARUS (HALACARELLUS) BASTERI Johnston
SkoKHoLM—North Haven, one on Corallina, August 1955, (JG).
AGUOPSIS BREVIPALPUS Trovessart
SKOKHOLM—Crab Bay, one in crévice, August 1955, (JG).
Class PSEUDOSCORPIONIDEA
Order NEOBISIINEA
Neobisiide
NEOBISIUM MARITIMUM (Leach)
SKOKHOLM—Crab Bay, South Haven, in intertidal crevices,
August 1955, (JG).
Class PYCNOGONIDA Sea spiders (E 140)
The sea spiders have sucking mouth parts and prey upon hy-
droids, anemones and polyzoa. They are often confined to one
particular species of host. The male usually carries the eggs.
Nymphonide
NYMPHON GRACILE Leach (E 141)
Occasional on all beaches (including Skokholm) under stones,
and in the trawl from Dale Roads.
NYMPHON RUBRUM Hodge
Dale Fort Beach, 13.9.50, (JG).
Phoxichilidiide
PHOXICHILIDIUM FEMORATUM (Rathke) (E 142)
Gann Flats, March 1955, (UB): Castle Beach, under stones,
L.W-S.T., 29.3.49, (DWS). |
ANOPLODACTYLUS ANGULATUS (Dohrn)
Slip Pier Beach, one, 9.9.54, (GTJ).
ANOPLODACTYLUS PYGMAEUs. (Hodge)
Stack Rock, one female on Alcyonidium Belatinesn, WS. 2;
259-53; (GT)):
288 R. BASSINDALE AND J. H. BARRETT
ANOPLODACTYLUS ExIGUUS (Dohrn)
Gann Flats South, one on Polyzoa under stone on sand,
26.3.56, (UB).
AMMOTHEA ECHINATA (Hodge) (E 143)
SKOKHOLM—Hog Bay, one on hydroids, 27.3.52, (ECJ) : Peter’s
Bay, one, 21.7.55, (SS®). (LE wWisde
Pycnogonide
PyCNOGONUM LITTORALE (Strdém) (E141; Y 253; BY Plate xiii)
Slip Pier Beach, one on Anthopleura sp. in high rock pool, 28.3.48,
(RDP). SkoxHotm—Peter’s Bay, one, 13.9.54, (HJM): South
Haven, one on Actinia equina, 29.3.56, (AWL).
Sub-Phylum MYRIAPODA
Class CHILOPODA Centipedes
HyDROSCHENDYLA SUBMARINA (Grube)
Among loose stones, sand and decaying Fucus. West Dale and
Watwick.
Sub-Phylum INSECTA
Class APTERYGOTA
Order COLLEMBOLA Spring-tails
ANURIDA MARITIMA Laboulbene (=JLipura) (BY Plate xii)
Common or abundant in mud, under stones, among barnacles,
on pools and in crevices above M.T.L., on both sheltered and
exposed coasts. Actual records include the lower Gann Estuary,
Frenchman’s Path (up to 60 per 1 ml. mud), Slip Pier Beach,
Dale Fort Beach, Dale Point, Watwick Bay and the Spit on Skomer.
ANURIDELLA MARINA Willem
Slip Pier Beach, in small pool, M.T.L., 6.9.50, (det. T. Clay)
(JHB).
Order THYSANURA Bristle-tails
Machilide
PETROBIUS MARITIMUS (Leach) (BY Plate xiii)
Abundant at and above H.W.M.; Frenchman’s Path, Slip
Pier Beach, Dale Fort (outbuildings), Castle Beach, Watwick Bay.
Phylum MOLLUSCA (E 14, 144; DW 113)
Class POLYPLACOPHORA (Loricata, Amphineura,
Chitons, E 172-3)
Lepidopleuride
LEPIDOPLEURUS ASELLUS (Gmelin) (E 173)
Musselwick, Point Wood Beach, Dale Roads (dredge). Occa-
sional. L.W.M. and sub-littoral. March, July, Sept.
THE DALE FORT MARINE FAUNA 289
Lepidochitonidz
TONICELLA RUBRA (L.) (E174).
Gann Stones, Slip Pier Beach, Gateholm. Occasional. L.W.S.T.
March, April.
LEPIDOCHITONA CINEREUS (L.) (E.174.; BY Plate xiv)
Gann Stones, Gann Estuary, Black Rocks, Point Wood Beach,
Slip Pier Beach, Monk Haven. SKkomER—South Haven. Under
stones. Not uncommon. March, September, November.
CALLOCHITON ACHATINUS (Brown) (E 174)
Gann Stones, Castle Beach, Martin’s Haven. Under stones,
L.W.S.T., up to 1 inch long. March, April.
Cryptoplacidz
ACANTHOCHITONA CRINITUS (Pennant) (E 175; Y 33; BY
Plate xiv)
From Musselwick Point round to the Slip Pier, Castle Beach and
Gunkel; Angle Bay. Common. March, July, September.
ACANTHOCHITONA DISCREPANS (Brown)
Dale, Fort Beach, 26.7.50, (MRY); 27.7.50, (JHB): Castle
Beach, several under rocks in lower Fucus vesiculosus zone, 21.8.53,
(ORB).
Class GASTROPODA
Winkles, whelks and sea-slugs (E 175, 178-181 ; H 176, 186).
Sub-Class PROSOBRANCHIA
Order ARCHAEOGASTROPODA
Fissurellide (E 183)
EMARGINULA RETICULATA J. Sowerby var. MULLERI Forbes and
Elanley (E163 ; BY Plate 17)
Castle -Beach, one, 11.4.49, (RDP); occasional, (JHB):
Martin’s Haven, (RDP). SKomer—North Haven, one, April
re46, (UB). L.W.S.T.
DIopORA APERTURA (Montagu) Key-hole limpet (E.183; BY
Plate 17)
Musselwick, Castle Beach, Watwick Bay, Great Castle Head,
Martin’s Haven. SkokHo~mM—South Haven. SkomER—North
Haven, South Haven, Mew Stone. Rare, L.W.S.T. March,
April, August, September.
Patellide Limpets (E 181-2)
IPATELEA VULGATA LL, (E 182; W 813; Y 115-9; RY 24;
BY, Plate 17)
I
290 R. BASSINDALE AND J. H. BARRETT
Ubiquitous. Upper part of shore. In 1949 the gonads began
ripening at the end of August—males first—but fertilisations were
not successful up to September 14th, (GO).
PATELLA INTERMEDIA Jeffreys (=depressa, E 182; BY Plate 17)
In Dale Bay only recorded from Slip Pier Beach. Common
outside and on Skokholm. Found on vertical faces and overhangs ;
prefers less exposed places than P. vulgata and is usually at a lower
tide level.
PATELLA ASPERA Lamarck (=athletica, E 182; BY Plate 17)
In Dale Bay only recorded from Slip Pier Beach. Common
outside and on Skokholm. Occurs on rock faces on the lower part
of the beach but in pools (to the exclusion of the other two species)
up to H.W.M.
During 1949 the gonads were ripe in July and August and fertili-
_sations were easily carried out but became progressively more
difficult from the last week of August, although success was attained
on September 16th, (GO).
Limpets are common on Skomer but the species were not separ-
ated, and, indeed the species are difficult to separate superficially.
Patella vulgata, the barnacles, dog-welks, and the anemone, Actinia
equina, are the intertidal rock face inhabitants par excellence.
Limpets breed mainly in January and February and their eggs are
shed in very characteristic egg cases. Their larvae are planktonic
and settlement was recorded in Watwick Bay in the Fucus spiralis
zone on 25.4.52, (JHB).
The animals feed when the tide is in by scraping the algal
film off the rock surface and the individual has a relatively small
grazing area of perhaps a foot diameter, and within this area pre-
vents the colonisation of the rock face by large sea weeds and
possibly other species of sessile organism. On the fall of tide each
limpet returns to its own ‘home’ where it stays for the exposure
period. It always orientes itself in exactly the same way and its
shell grows or wears to fit the irregularities of the rock surface—or
it wears away the rock—so that its home is marked by a scar. They
grow up to I inch in one year and at three years are over 2 ins. long.
A tall conical shape is characteristic of exposed, and a flattened
shape (in the same species) of sheltered, or rock pool, situations.
Work by a Bristol student, Mr. B. A. Jones, established the follow-
ing facts about limpets on Dale Point. On the exposed (Castle
Beach) side of the Point a mid-tide pool contained 97% P. aspera,
1% vulgata and 2°%, intermedia. ‘The adjacent dry rock surface had
1% aspera, 91%, vulgata and 8°%% intermedia. In comparing the zona-
tion at this place with that just round the Point on the sheltered.
(Dale Roads) side, Jones established that vulgata was found right
THE DALE FORT MARINE FAUNA 291
up to H.W.S.T. level or even higher, was common on open rock
faces but rare in pools or wet rock areas. It extended, in
lesser abundance, down to L.W.S.T. but not below. That is, it
prefers dry areas above M.T.L. PP. aspera was abundant at
L.W.S.T. (especially on the exposed side) and extended below.
It extended little above this level except in rock pools where it was
dominant up to H.W.N.T. P. intermedia was not found on the
sheltered side and was not abundant on the exposed side. It
occurred between H.W.N.T. and L.W.N.T. and although found
in pools was commoner on the rocks. (In South West Ireland P.
aspera occurred alone on the exposed coasts even at high levels.
P. vulgata was dominant in the sheltered Lough Ine and P. inter-
media was absent.) The larger specimens of P. vulgata occur high
on the shore, and of P. aspera in the pools. The latter are larger
than the former.
PATINA PELLUCIDA (L.) Blue-rayed limpet (E 182; Y 126; BY
Plate 17)
Common or abundant on rocks or, more usually, weeds (Lamin-
aria, Rhodymenia palmata) at L.W.M. on all coasts, exposed or
sheltered ; also on Skokholm, on Skomer and in the sub-littoral.
February to September. Sperm discharged 28.2.56, (JM).
Acmeide
ACMAEA VIRGINEA (Miller) (=Patelloida, E 184; BY Plate 17)
Musselwick, 12.10.50, (EMT): Dale Beach, March 1949,
(NWM): Castle Beach 13.4.49, (JHB). SKokHotm—shells only.
SKOMER—Mew Stone, April 1946, (UB). L.W.S.T. Rare.
Trochide Top shells (E 184)
Together with the winkles (Litiorina), the top shells are useful for
the demonstration of zonation on the shore.
CALLIOSTOMA ZIZYPHINUM (L.) Painted top (E184; Y 126;;
BY Plate xiv)
Musselwick Point, Point Wood Beach, Dale Point, Castle Beach,
Gunkel, Watwick Bay. SxokHotm—The Stack, Hog Bay, Crab
Bay, Dumbbell Bay. SkomErR—North Haven, South Haven, Mew
Stone, Basin. L.W.S.T. Common. White specimens are quite
common among the normal ones and have been recorded from
Musselwick Point, Dale Point, Gunkel, Watwick Bay, Hog Bay and
the Mew Stone.
CANTHARIDUS DELANDI (Wood) (E 185)
Castle Beach, common, L.W.E.S.T., 13.9.54, (UCW).
GiBBULA (MONODONTA) LINEATA (da Costa) Toothed top (= Osilinus,
Pea 5 VV 06; Y 119; BY Plate xiv)
292 R. BASSINDALE AND J. H. BARRETT
Frequent in the whole of Dale Bay, including the Gann Estuary,
and at Castle Beach, Gateholm and on Skokholm. Common on
Skomer, and abundant at St. Bride’s Haven where it was zoned
above Littorina littorea, overlapping it by about one foot, and with a
maximum abundance 6 to 8 feet below H.W.M. ‘The population
was scattered on rock (in full sun), among weed and in pools, and
was nowhere clumped.
GiBBULA (GIBBULA) MaAGus (L.) var. TUBERCULATA (da Costa)
(E 186; BY Plate xiv)
Gann Flats, Point Wood Beach, Castle Beach, Dale Roads.
L.W.M. and sub-littoral. Occasional, except in July 1953, when
it was common on the Gann Flats from L.W.N.T. downwards
( JHB).
GiBBULA (GIBBULA) CINERARIA (L.) Grey top (E 186; Y 128; BY
Plate xiv)
Common near L.W.M. on rocky shores all round Dale Bay, at
Castle Beach and Angle Bay, on Skokholm and Skomer (including
the sub-littoral).
GriBBULA (GIBBULA) UMBILICALIS (da Costa) Purple top (E 186 ;
Yor: BY Plate xi)
Common on all rocky shores in Dale Bay ; Castle Beach, West
Dale Bay, Great Castle Head, Angle Bay, St. Bride’s Haven ; and
on Skokholm and Skomer. Occasionally found in the mouth of
the Gann.
Turbinide
TRICOLIA PULLUs (L.) var. pictus (da Costa) (E 186 ; BY Plate xiv)
Slip Pier Beach, Castle Beach, Great Castle Head, Martin’s
Haven, Dale Roads. SkoxHotm—Peter’s Bay, North Haven.
Occasional. But common at Castle Beach and North Haven.
L.W.S.T. and below. Under stones and among weeds.
Order MESOGASTROPODA
Littorinide (—Lacunide, E 186-7) Winkles
The species of Littorina provide the best example of animal
zonation on the shore. See Y Chap. 14, C 176-180.
Lacuna vincta (Montagu) (E 188; BY Plate xiv)
Slip Pier, 28.3.48 ; Dale Roads, dredge, 8.4.49. Rare. (RDP).
LACUNA PALLIDULA (da Costa) (E 188)
SkoKHoLM—Crab Bay, 12.4.48, (BW): Peter’s Bay, 12.4.48,
(BW) ; frequent, 1.8.50, (H JMB).
THE DALE FORT MARINE FAUNA 293
LITTORINA LITTORALIS (L.) Flat winkle (obtusata, E 188, Y 127,
IY 25; BY Plate xiv)
Common in Dale Bay, including the Gann Estuary, (but not
actually recorded from Black Rocks), Castle Beach and Angle Bay.
Rare at West Dale Bay. Common on Skokholm and Skomer.
On weeds up to about H.W.N.T. Egg masses on weeds, 2.4.46,
(UB) and 3.3.51 (JHB). Larvae planktonic.
LiIrTORINA LITTOREA (L.). Common or edible winkle (E 187 ;
Wyesec DW 64; Y 118; RY 28; BY Plate xiv)
Occasional at Musselwick Point, Gann Estuary, Slip Pier Beach,
Dale Fort Beach, Castle Beach and SkoxHotm—Peter’s Bay, Crab
Bay and South Haven. Common at Frenchman’s Path, Angle
Bay and on SkomeR—North and South Havens. Abundant at
Black Rocks (L.W.N.T.) and at St. Bride’s Haven where it was
zoned below Gibbula lineata, had a maximum abundance at 8 to
10 ft. below H.W.M. and was found largely in pools (6.4.51).
(JHB). Eggs and larvae planktonic.
The rarity of this species in Dale Bay with no records for Gann
Stones, Gann Flats, Brig Stones, and Point Wood Beach, nor for
Watwick and other outside stations, suggests that its occurrence has
simply not been recorded. The abundance and zonation of L.
littorea and, perhaps, its zonation with reference to that of Gzbbula
lineata, require examination.
LITTORINA SAXATILIS (Olivi) Rough winkle (=rudis, E 187 ; W 82 ;
W118; BY Plate xiv)
Ubiquitous at H.W.N.T. and above, extending into the splash
zone with L. neritoides, on sheltered, exposed and estuarine coasts.
Viviparous.
On exposed shores the specimens are said to be rougher and
smaller than in sheltered places (GO) but Marloes Sands specimens
are deeply ridged whereas on Skomer, in exposure, they are not
(JHB). On Skockholm at Hog Bay, three types have been re-
corded :—(a) in the Fucus spiralis zone—up to 20 mm. long, dark,
medium spire, spirally striate ; (5) in and above the Pelvetza zone,
and also near L.W.M.; up to 12 mm., orange colour, medium
spire, spirally striate ; and (c) in the Fucus zone ; purple-brown,
spire long, smooth (CED). Orange specimens predominate at
St. Bride’s Haven and on the N.E. side of Gateholm (JHB) and
the young, near Dale Point, are smooth and white with orange
brown markings (MRY).
LITTORINA NERITOIDES (L.) var. PETRAEA (Montagu) Small winkle
(BY. Plate xiv)
Characteristically occurs at and above H.W.M. on exposed.
shores. It has been so recorded in the Dale records on all exposed
shores and extends a little way into shelter :—occasional, Slip Pier
294 R. BASSINDALE AND J. H. BARRETT
Beach (RDP, EMT, UB), Castle Beach (JHB) and Angle Bay.
Absent at Dale Fort Beach (MRY). Larvae planktonic.
At West Dale Bay and Skokholm South Cliff it has been recorded
30 ft. above H.W.M., (GO, KGM) and, in barnacle shells at West
Dale Bay, down to 4 ft. above L.W.S.T., (GO). On Skomer
‘specimens grew to 12 mm., ( JHB).
Hydrobiide (E 191)
PERINGIA ULVAE (Pennant) (—AHydrobia E 191 ; BY Plate xv)
Gann Estuary, from 400 yds. below Mullock Bridge to mouth,
25.11.48, (NWM) ; range restricted on 31.3.50 as compared with
1.4.49, (NWM): Gann Saltings, abundant, 8.4.49, (RDP).
An estuarine and brackish water species.
POTAMOPYRGUS JENKINSI Smith (=AHydrobia) (BY Plate xv)
This species has invaded brackish and fresh waters during this
century and is present in the stream flowing onto Castle Beach
(EMT, UMG, UCW). |
Rissoide (E 189)
These small snails are usually overlooked by hand-collectors
because they are so small and are probably much more widespread
than the records indicate.
CINGULA (ONOBA) SEMICOSTATA (Montagu) (E 190)
Musselwick, several, L.W.S.T., 3.4.50, (NWM): Slip Pier
Beach, under stones on gravel, 10.8.50, (EMT). SKkoxkHoLm—
North Haven, one, 31.7.50, (HJMB): Crab Bay, Common in
muddy places, 2.8.50, (HJ MB).
CINGULA (CINGULA) CINGILLUs (Montagu) (E 190)
Musselwick, under stones among shingle, 14.9.50, (EMT ):
Dale, 28.3.53, (MRY): Slip Pier Beach, common under stones,
M.T.L., 28.3.48, (RDP): Dale Fort Beach, 26.7.50, (MRY).
SKokHoLmM—Peter’s Bay, one, 1.8.50, (HJMB).
CINGULA (CINGULA) SEMISTRIATA (Montagu) (E 190)
SKOKHOLM—Peter’s Bay, common 1.8.50; Crab Bay, one,
2.8.50 ; North Haven, common below L.W.M., 3.8.50, (HJ MB).
CINGULA (PARVISETIA) FULGIDA (J. Adams) (E 190)
SKOKHOLM—Peter’s Bay, rare, 17.8.48, (JHB); one, 1.8.50,
(HJ MB).
Rissoa (TURBOELLA) PARVA (da Costa) (E 189 ; W 123)
Musselwick, several, L.W.S.T., 3.4.50, (NWM): Gateholm,
abundant in Cladophora rupestris, 28.3.48, (DRP). SKkOoKHOLM—
North Haven, common, 31.7.50; Peter’s Bay, common, L.W.M.,
1.8.50, (HJMB).
THE DALE FORT MARINE FAUNA 295
Skeneopside (E 192)
SKENEOPSIS PLANORBIS (Fabricius) (E 192)
SKOKHOLM—North Haven, abundant on Corallina, common on
Lomentaria articulata, 20.8.55, (JG).
Turritellidz
TURRITELLA COMMUNIS Risso Turret shell (BY Plate xiv)
Common in the sub-littoral ; Dale Roads, off Angle Lifeboat
slipway and off North Haven on Skomer : occasional at L.W.M. ;
Brig Stones and Angle Bay.
Aporrhaidz
APORRHAIS PES-PELICANI (L.) QUADRIFIDUS da Costa Pelican’s foot
shell (BY Plate xiv)
Dredged in Dale Roads off Monk Haven and Watch House
Point. Common. With Turritella.
Cerithiide (E 191)
BITTIUM RETICULATUM (da Costa) (E 191 ; BY Plate xiv).
Point Wood Beach, August 1950, (EMT). SkoxHo~tm—South
Haven, on Halichondria, 31.7.50, (HJ MB).
Cerithiopside (E 192)
CERITHIOPSIS TUBERCULARIS (Montagu) (E 192)
Brig Stones, one, 31.7.50, (JHB) : Great Castle Head, 26.7.50,
(MRY).
CERITHIOPSIS CLARKIT Forbes and Hanley
Great Castle Head, 26.7.50, (MRY).
Epitoniide
CLATHRUS CLATHRUS (L.) (BY Plate xiv)
Off Stack Rock, one dredged on shelly gravel, 18.9.53, (GIJ).
A dead shell from Dale Beach was determined by W. J. Rees.
Janthinidz
JANTHINA BRITANNICA Forbes and Hanley (BY Plate xv)
West Dale Bay, one, alive, 6.9.50, (EMT). Dead shells have been
found in West Dale Bay and Marloes Sands in August and Septem-
ber. ‘This warm-water species with its deep violet or purple shell
and body, secretes a float (on the underside of which it attaches its
eggs) and occasionally drifts ashore in the same was as the floating
Physalia, Velella and Lepas fascicularis.
Pyramidellide
No records of this family have been made at Dale but the recent
work of Fretter and Graham suggests that if searched for in the right
296 R. BASSINDALE AND J. H. BARRETT
place, they will probably be found. ‘These very small snails are
equipped with a long proboscis armed with a piercing stylet and
equipped with a sucking pump. ‘They live near the opening of the
appropriate species of bivalve or tubicolous worm and when the
host opens to feed they suck juices from the mantle edge or tentacle.
Thus, if the shells of bivalves or the external walls of polychaete
tubes are searched carefully, pyramidellids should quickly be found.
One species is known to damage oysters.
Naticide (E 194)
NATICA CATENA (da Costa) (E 194; Y 2975 BY Plate aa)
Musselwick Point, one under stone, L.W.S.T., 28.3.48, (RDP) :
Milford Haven, off Angle Lifeboat Slip, one, dredge, 15.4.49,
(RDP). Broad Haven, dead shells with hermit-crabs, 20.4.50,
(EMT).
Calyptreide (E 193)
CALYPTRAEA CHINENSIS (L.) Chinaman’s hat limpet (E 194; BY
Plate 17)
Common from Gann Stones to Slip Pier Beach, in Angle Bay
and in Dale Roads. L.W.N.T. to sub-littoral.
CREPIDULA FORNICATA (L.) Slipper limpet (E 194; Y 276;
BY Plate 17)
Single individuals and small chains in Pennar Gut, 1953 (Baird,
R. H. and H. A. Cole) : on rocks, stones and shells in ones and twos
at L.W.S.T. and below, in Pennar Gut, Neyland, Hazelbeach and
Pwllchrochan Flats, January 1954, (BTH).
This interesting filter-feeding gastropod is a pest on oyster beds
due to the fact that it lives in considerable numbers on top of the
oysters and, feeding like the oyster on the floating plankton and
detritus, it gets first chance and starves the oyster. It first appeared,
probably from North America on imported oysters, about 80 years
ago and has spread to oyster beds on our south-east and south coasts.
Its (presumably) recent arrival in Milford Haven shows a con-
siderably slower spread than that of the New Zealand barnacle,
Elminius, which has spread from the English Channel to the Scottish
borders in ten or twelve years.
Cypreide Cowries (E 196)
ERATO voLuTA (Montagu)
Castle Beach, one in crevice, L.W.S.T., 28.8.49 ; Dale Roads,
one, dredge, 3.9.49, (GO).
TRIVEA MONACHA (da Costa) (E196; Y 147; BY Plate xv)
Common, Musselwick Point and South Haven, Skomer : occa-
sional, Slip Pier Beach, Castle Beach and Angle Bay. L.W.M.,
under stones and among Fucus serratus.
THE DALE FORT MARINE FAUNA 297
TRIVEA ARTICA (Montagu) (E196; BY Plate xv)
Common, Musselwick Point and North Haven, Skomer : occa-
sional, Slip Pier Beach, Castle Beach. SKoKHOLM—-South Haven,
Crab Bay. SkomMER—Mew Stone. Under stones in Laminaria zone.
The two species of Trivea are notable in three ways. ‘The mantle
tissues spread out over the outside of the shell thereby keeping it
smooth ; they feed with the aid of a proboscis and radula on com-
pound ascidians; and they deposit their egg capsules in holes
which they excavate in the gelatinous colonies on which they feed.
Lamellariide (E 195)
LAMELLARIA PERSPICUA (L.) (E 195; BY Plate xv)
Musselwick Point, Slipway Beach, Castle Beach. Occasional
under boulders, L.W.S.T., March, July, August.
VELUTINA VELUTINA (Miller) (E 195; BY Plate xv)
Gann Stones, 28.3.48, (RDP).
Order STENOGLOSSA
Muricide (E 196)
NUCELLA LAPILLUS (L.) (=Purpura) Dog-whelk (E196; W 84;
Diveooe Yorr9, 129,191; RY 33 ; BY Plate xvi)
Ubiquitous, including Grassholm. Very variable in shape:
as the exposure increases so the shell thickens, the ornamentation
and total length lessen, and the proportion of the total length
occupied by the mouth increases. Usually white (when feeding on
barnacles) but banded or dark (when feeding on mussels). It
feeds on barnacles in preference to mussels but grows better on the
latter diet. In feeding on barnacles it forces the proboscis in past
the opercular plates , but for mussels, it bores a neat circular hole
through the shell. Its well-known, vase-shaped, cream coloured
egg capsules have been recorded in March, May, July and Septem-
ber.
OCENEBRA ERINACEA (L.) (E197; DW 44; BY Plate xvi).
Occasional only ; Musselwick Point, Black Rocks, Castle Beach,
Angle Bay, Dale Roads (dredge). SKkokHo~tm—Crab Bay ;
SKOMER—North Haven: but common at Gunkel (GO) and
absent at Slip Pier Beach and Gateholm (RDP). L.W.S.T. and
below. March, April, May, July, August.
NEPTUNEA ANTIQUA (L.) (BY Plate xvi)
Gann Flats, one, L.W.M., 6.3.50, ( JHB).
Buccinide
Buccinum UNDATUM L. Whelk (E197; DW 118, 130; Y 170;
ivoneot;, BY Plates xxv, xvi)
A sub-littoral species found in Dale Roads and often taken in
298 R. BASSINDALE AND J. H. BARRETT
small numbers at L.W.S.T. from Musselwick to the Slip Pier.
Five were found on a dead Carcinus (6.3.50, JHB) on the Gann
Flats. Egg masses occurred in the trawl in April and May.
Newly hatched young were seen on 8.3.51, the capsules containing
from 3 to 10 young each (JHB). On 20.12.56 the adults and their
newly deposited egg-capsules were very abundant indeed near
LL.W.E.S.T. on the Gann Flats, ( JH);
Nassariide (E 197)
NASSARIUS RETICULATUS (L.) (E198; BY Plate xvi)
Occasional, L.W.M.; Musselwick, Black Rocks, Castle Beach,
Martin’s Haven, Angle Bay. SkoKHOLM—South Haven. SKOMER
—North and South Havens, and dredged in North Haven. Egg
capsules, Skomer, 2.4.46, (UB).
NASSARIUS INGRASSATUS (Strém) (E198; BY Plate xvi)
Martin’s Haven, common under boulders, L.W.S.T., 12.4.49,
(RDP): Angle Bay, April 1953, (UB). SxkokHotm—Crab Bay,
rare, 14.9.54, (HJM). Skomer—North Haven, one, April 1946,
(UB).
Turride (E 198)
MANGELIA NEBULA (Montagu)
Dale Beach, one sieved in sand, Sept. 1948, (RDP).
Sub-Class OPISTHOBRANCHIA
Order BULLOMORPHA
Acteonide (E 199)
ACTEON TORNATILIS (L.) (E199; BY Plate 18)
Dale Beach, one on surface of sand, L.W.S.T., 13.4.49, (RDP) :
several, 12.4.49, ( JHB).
Atyide (Akeratide, E 200)
AKERA BULLATA Miiller (E 200: BY Plate 18)
Stack Rock, two, 22.9.52, (EMS and GTJ).
Scaphandride
CYLICHNA CYLINDRACEA (Pennant)
Dale Beach, 28.3.48, (RDP).
TRICLA LIGNARIA BROWNI Leach
Dale Beach, one on sand, L.W.S.T., 2.4.50, (NWM): Dale
Roads, one in dredge; 29.4.52, (EMT).
Philinide (E 200)
PHILINE APERTA (L.) QUADRIPARTITA Ascanius (E 200)
Dale Roads, dredge, one, 6.4.49, (RDP) : occasional, especially
in August, 1951, (EMT).
THE DALE FORT MARINE FAUNA 299
Peltide (E 200)
PELTA CORONATA Quatrefages (BY Plate 18)
Castle Beach, one in pool, M.T.L., 27.4.50, (JHB). SKox-
HOoLM—Crab Bay, one, L.W.M., 22.7.55, (KST): one in pool,
27.6.56, (CRT).
Order APLYSIOMORPHA
Aplysiide (E 201)
APLYSIA PUNCTATA Cuvier Sea hare (E201; DW 118; Y 169;
BY Plate 18)
Aplysia has been taken all round Dale Bay, in Dale Roads, at
Angle and West Dale Bays and Peter’s Bay on Skokholm. It
spawns late (Dale Beach, September 1948, RDP) and the coiled
pink threads of eggs give rise to planktonic larvae which eventu-
ally settle and grow mainly in the sub-littoral to spawn next year
on the shore. It was widespread but rare in Dale Bay in 1948 but
abundant on Dale Beach in September. There are no records
for 1949, very few from 1950 to 1952, none in 1953, quite a number
in 1954, a few in 1955 and none in 1956. It is a southern species
extending northwards to our coasts, and, as may be expected of an
animal near its limit of distribution, its numbers vary considerably
from year to year, and past records hold no clue to its future
abundance.
Order SACOGLOSSA
Elysiide
EysiA viripis (Montagu) (E 203: BY Plate 21)
Musselwick, one, 25.9.49, (GO): Gann Flats, one, Sept. 1948,
(RDP): Black Rocks, one in Ascophyllum zone, M.T.L., 20.4.54,
(JM) : Castle Beach, in rock pool, H.W.N.T., 27.3.49, (DWS).
Limapontiide
LimapontiA capiTata (Miiller) (BY Plate 21)
Slip Pier Beach, in Cladophora among Fucus, 12.3.49, (DWS) :
Castle Beach, two on stone, 5.8.49, (GO) : SkoxHotm—Crab Bay,
three, L.W.M., 22.7.55, (MEB).
Order PLEUROBRANCHOMORPHA
Pleurobranchide (E 201)
BERTHELLA PLUMULA (Montagu) (E201; BY Plate 18)
Musselwick Point, Gann Flats, Dale Beach, Slip Pier Beach,
Castle Beach. Occasional. March, April, July. Abundant once,
at Musselwick, 28.3.48, (RDP).
300 R. BASSINDALE AND J. H. BARRETT
PLEUROBRANCHUS MEMBRANACEUS (Montagu) (E 202 : BY Plate 18)
Black Rocks, Dale Beach, Great Castle Head, Dale Roads.
Occasional. L.W.S.T. and below. Common once, on Dale
Beach, 3.4.54, (UB).
Order NUDIBRANCHIA
The nudibranchs are among the most beautiful of marine animals.
They feed on an unusual diet of sponges or coelenterates, often
being restricted to a particular species. The nematocysts of the
prey are in some cases passed undischarged to the tips of the cerata
and may there be used in defence of the nudibranch itself. Many
species assemble on the shore to mate and produce characteristic
spirally-coiled ribbons of spawn. ‘The larvae are planktonic.
Sub-Order DORIDACEA
Polyceride (E 204)
EUPHURUS CLAVIGER (Miller) (E 205)
Watwick Bay, under stones among sponges, L.W.S.T., 19.7.51 ;
one in pool, 18.7.54, (HJ).
POLYCERA QUADRILINEATA (Miiller) (E205; BY Plate 20)
Watwick Bay, on polyzoan, L.W.S.T.; four on polyzoan on
Delesseria on lobster pots, 3.8.51; West Dale Bay, one, 20.7.56,
(JHB). SxkoxHorm—South Haven, one, 18.7.55, (KST).
PaLio NOTHUS (Johnston) (E 207)
Dale Beach, one, September 1951, (UCL).
Onchidorididz
ACANTHODORIS PILOSA (Abildgaard) (E206; BY Plate 20)
Gann Stones, Gann Flats, Point Wood Beach, common in
March ; mainly white, one black: St. Ann’s Head, one, 25.3.52,
(NWM).
ACANTHODORIS SUBQUADRATA (Alder and Hancock)
Slip Pier Beach, two, L.W.S.T., 12.4.48, (RDP)
ONCHIDORIS MURICATA (Miiller) (E207: BY Plate 19)
Dale, one, September 1951, (UCL).
ONncHIDoRIs FuscA (E 207; DW 116; RY 33; BY Plate 19)
Monk Haven in dredge, two, 23.4.51, (EMT): eleven with
spawn, 27.4.53, (JP).
ONcHIDoRIs spARSA (Alder and Hancock)
Off Stack Rock, several dredged, 6.9.56 (Det. J. Forrest) (BR).
ONcHIDORIs INconspIcuA (Alder and Hancock)
Dale, one, September 1951, (UCL).
THE DALE FORT MARINE FAUNA 301
Okeniidae
Gontoporis NoDOosA (Montagu) (E206; BY Plate 20)
From one to twenty specimens—Gann Flats, Dale Beach, Point
Wood Beach, Slip Pier Beach, Castle Beach, Gunkel, Gateholm,
Martin’s Haven, Angle Bay, Dale Roads, off Stack Rock. SKoxK-
HoLM—Crab Bay. SKkomEr—Mew Stone. L.W.S.T. and below.
March, April, July, September, November. Spawn, 3.3.51,
( JHB).
GONIODORIS CASTANEA Alder and Hancock (BY Plate 20)
Dale Roads, one in dredge, 17.9.53, (EMS).
ANCULA CRISTATA (Alder) (E 206; BY Plate 20)
SKOKHOLM—Crab Bay, one, 24.3.52, (P di B).
Glossodoridide (E 208)
ROSTANGA RUFESCENS Iredale and O’Donoghue (E 208; BY
Plate 19)
One each at Musselwick Point, Castle Beach, Gunkel and Stack
Rock. March, August, September. L.W.S.T.
ARCHIDORIS PSEUDOARGUS (Rapp) (=dvittanica + flammea) Sea
lemon (E 208; W 86; DW 44; Y 108; BY Plate 19)
On all rocky shores, exposed and sheltered, including Skokholm
and Skomer. March, April, July, August, September. Spawn,
March, April, May, September. Copulation, 3.3.51.
JORUNNA TOMENTOSA (Cuvier) (E 208; BY Plate 109)
Occasional, Musselwick, Dale Beach, Slip Pier Beach, Castle
Beach, Martin’s Haven. Skomer—North Haven. March, Aug.
Spawn, August.
Sub-Order EOLIDACEA
Coryphellide (Flabellinide, E 213)
CORYPHELLA VERRUCOSA (M. Sars) PELLUcIDA (Alder and Han-
cock) (E213),
Musselwick, rare under rocks with sponges and_ascidians,
L.W.S.T., 4.4.54, (UB).
CORYPHELLA PEDATA (Montagu) (E 213)
Gann Stones and Castle Beach. Under stones, L.W.S.T.
March, April, September. Of regular occurrence in small num-
bers.
Facelinidz
FACELINA AURICULATA (Miiller) (=Jongicornis -+ drummondi +
coronata) (EK 211 ; BY Plate 21)
Musselwick Point and Little Bay on Skokholm. March and
August. L.W.S.T.
302 R. BASSINDALE AND J. H. BARRETT
Aeolidiide
AEOLIDIELLA GLAUGA (Alder and Hancock) (includes Aeolidina
aldert and Eolis angulata)
Musselwick Point, 28.3.48, (RDP).
AEOLIDIA PAPILLOSA (L.) (E211; W 87; Y Teg sRWaa7 By
Plate 21)
Occasional on rocks from Musselwick to the Slip Pier ; and
Angle Bay. March, April. Spawn, April.
Sub-Class PULMONATA (E214)
Order BASOMMATOPHORA
Ellobiide (E 214)
LEUCOPHYTIA BIDENTATA (Montagu) (E 214)
Gann Estuary, gregarious under stones, September 1948, (UCL) :
Slip Pier Beach, Oct. 1950, (UMG).
Class LAMELLIBRANCHIA Bivalves (E 145, 149)
Order PROTOBRANCHIA
Nuculide
NucuLa nucLeus (L.)
From Thorn Island to Angle Bay, occasional in dredge, 15.4.49,
(RDP).
NucuLa TuRGIDA Leckenby and Marshall
Dale Beach, a few sieved from sand, March 1948, (RDP).
Order DYSODONTA
Mytilide (E 153)
Mopio.tus mopioLus (L.) (E153; BY Plate 22)
Dale Roads, one, trawl, 6.4.49, (RDP) : Martin’s Haven, two,
dredge, 27.4.53, (JP): Pwllchrochan Flats, common on muddy
sand and gravel below L.W.N.T., January 1954, (BTH).
MoptoLus BARBATUS (L.) (E153; BY Plate 22)
Gunkel, one in crevice, Ascophyllum zone, ‘21.8.53, (ORB) :
Monk Haven, one, dredge, 27.4.53, ( JP).
Mopio.Lus PHASEOLINUS (Philippi) (BY Plate 22)
SKOKHOLM—Crab Bay, dead shell.
MuscuLus MARMORATUS (Forbes) (BY Plate 22)
Castle Beach, one in test of ascidian, L.W.S.T., 11.4.49, (RDP) :
27.8.49, (GO).
THE DALE FORT MARINE FAUNA 303;
CRENELLA DECUSSATA (Montagu)
SKOKHOLM—Common among Flustra and Sertularella in lobster
pots, 26.6.50, ( JHB).
Mytiuus Epuuis L. Common mussel (E 152; W 75; Y 133, 138 ;
RY (303) BY Plate 22)
Small specimens are abundant in crevices on all rocky
shores, including Skokholm and Skomer from the barnacle zone
down to L.W.S.T., and they extend into the Gann Estuary. Larger
specimens are found on Gann Flats, Marloes Sands and in Dale
Roads: they occur between tide marks from Angle Bay to Little
Milford, and are present in Pennar Gut, Carew and Creswell
Rivers (lower reaches only) and Sandy Haven. Very few occur
below L.W.S.T. in the upper reaches of the estuary. ‘There is an
extensive bed at Fowborough Point.
The species is infested with Mytilicola.
Recent work suggests that not all are of this species, some
being M. galloprovincialts.
It is obvious that feeding in intertidal animals must be rhythmic
since they can usually only feed when the tide isin. It has recently
been shown that the digestive processes of the small bivalve Lasaea
rubra are also rhythmic——-and begin when submergence and the
possibility of feeding begins. But it seems likely that the rhythm is
entirely dependent on external stimuli because the processes can be
started off at the ‘wrong’ time. by submergence. In intertidal
Mytilus, however, the feeding rhythm is inherent. If the rate of
passage of water through the mantle cavity is measured it can be
shown that the rate is high when the tide is in and low when the
tide is out, even though the specimen is lying in an aquarium all
the time. Furthermore this rhythm is maintained for up to a week
even if the animal is kept in water under stable conditions. ‘Thus
intertidal mussels from different parts of the coast (where the time
of high water is different) can be separated in the laboratory, even
after their prolonged journey by rail, because their rate of pumping
water rises to a maximum at the appropriate, different, times.
MyTILUS GALLOPROVINCIALIS Lamarck
Thirty per cent of Mytilus in Angle Bay are of this species,
(B. T. Hepper, 1957, Journ. Mar. Biol. Assoc. U.K. 36, 1. 33-40),
and it doubtless occurs elsewhere.
Order PSEUDOLAMELLIBRANCHIA
Anomiide (E 150)
This family is noted for its single adductor muscle, the calcified
byssus which seems to pierce the lower valve and for its simple
gill filaments.
304 R. BASSINDALE AND J. H. BARRETT
ANOMIA EPHIPPIUM L. (E150; BY Plate xvii)
Slip Pier Beach, common in rock pool, Ascophyllum zone, 20.8.53,
(ORB) : Angle Bay, April 1953, (UB) : (two shells, 2 ins. across
from crabs in deep water off St. Ann’s Head, years ago, JHB)
SKOKHOLM—Peter’s Bay, 11.8.49, (GO): North Haven, 29.7.50,
(HJMB) : Crab Bay, 29.7.50, (HJMB) ; 14.9.54, (HJM). Com-
mon under stones and in Laminaria holdfasts. :
MOoNIA PATELLIFORMIS (L.) (E151; BY Plate xvii)
Musselwick, March 1955, (UB): Dale Roads, one, dredge,
30-4.56, (JM).
HETERANOMIA SQUAMULA (L.) (E 151)
Slip Pier Beach, Castle Beach, Watwick Bay, Gateholm, Martin’s
Haven. SkokHotm—North Haven, Crab Bay. Common under
stones and in Laminaria holdfasts, L.W.S.T. and in pool, Ascophyllum
zone. March, July, August.
Pectinide Scallops (E 153)
All species have a single adductor muscle. Some are attached
by the byssus, others are free and have no byssus. These latter may
swim by a snapping of the shell—either hinge foremost or hindmost.
The mantle edge has well developed tentacles and eyes.
CHLAMYS OPERCULARIS (L.) (E154; RY 308; BY Plate 22)
Musselwick Point, Point Wood Beach, Slip Pier Beach, Castle
Beach, Dale Roads, dredge and trawl, S. Hook to Gelliswick,
trawl. L.W.S.T. and below, in crevices. Occasional.
CHLAMYs VARIA (L.) (E154; BY Plate 22)
Gann Stones, Gann Flats, Brig Stones, Point Wood Beach, Dale
Roads (dredge). SkokHotm—Crab Bay. Occasional, up to
7 cm. on shore anchored to stones and Gigartina stellata ( JHB), up
to 13 cm. in dredge on muddy stones and gravel (GTJ).
CHLAMYS DISTORTA (da Costa) (E154; BY Plate 22)
Musselwick, Castle Beach, Martin’s Haven. L.W.S.T., up to
2 inch. Occasional.
PECTEN Maximus (L.) (E153, Y 169, RY 308: BY Plate 22)
Musselwick Point, Angle Bay, Dale Roads, Watch House Point.
Occasional. L.W.S.T. and below.
Order EULAMELLIBRANCHIA
Ostreide (E 154)
OsTREA EDULIs L. Oyster (E154; RY 190, 204,207. Eee:
BY Plate xvii)
Musselwick Point, Gann Flats, Dale Beach, Point Wood Beach,
Dale Roads and Watch House Point (dredge). Occasional,
THE DALE FORT MARINE FAUNA 305
L.W.S.T. and below. Up to 13 by 15 cm. Larvae in plankton,
8.8.56, (P. Warren).
Sixty years ago there was a successful oyster fishery in Milford
Haven but the last commercial dredging took place 30 years ago.
The decline is attributed by Dr. H. A. Cole to uncontrolled exploita-
tion and he further suggests that a commercial fishery could be re-
established and has recommended trial plantings of oysters in suit-
able areas in Dale Bay, Pennar Gut and Angle Bay, which have
been done and promise success.
Astartidz
ASTARTE SULCATA (da Costa)
Dale Roads, trawl, 10.10.50, (EMT) : many dredged half mile
east of Thorn Island, 15.4.49, (RDP).
Cyprinidz
CYPRINA ISLANDICA (L.)
Occasional in Dale Bay either ashore (Lower Gann, Black
Rocks, Dale Beach. L.W.S.T.), or by dredge.
Most of the British marine fauna is of species belonging to
northern latitudes which extend southwards to Great Britain, or
of more southern species extending northwards to Great Britain—
both types dying out, but overlapping, in the English Channel
area, thus producing a varied fauna. Only a few species are true
temperate species, extending north and south from Great Britain,
and Cyprina is one of this small group.
Ungulinide
THYASIRA FLEXUOSA (Montagu)
Dale Beach, 28.3.48, (RDP): Brig Stones, one valve,
31.7.50, ( JHB)
Lucinide (E 155)
LucInoMA BOREALIS (L.) (E155 as Phacoides ; BY Plate xix)
Gann, Dale Beach, 28.3.48, (RDP).
Erycinide (E 155)
LASAEA RUBRA (Montagu) (E 156)
Black Rocks, two in sandy gravel, 26.4.49, (JHB): Castle
Beach, 28.3.48, (RDP). SkoxHotm—Crab Bay, one, 13.9.54,
(HJM).
This small bivalve is widespread between tide marks on rocky
shores and is often found in abundance among the lichen, Lichina
pygmaea (150,000 per square yard) near H.W.M. (C175). The
digestive rhythm is governed by the tide—see note under Mytilus
edulis.
K
306 R. BASSINDALE AND J. H. BARRETT
KELLIA SUBORBICULARIS (Montagu) (E 155)
Musselwick Point, rare in crevices, 28.3.48 ; Castle Beach, a
few. LA W.S!l., 11.4.49, (RDE).
Montacutidze
MONTACUTA FERRUGINOSA (Montagu)
Commensal with Echinocardium cordatum. Gann Flats, March
1955, (UB): Dale Beach, 13.4.49, (RDP); 26.3.52, (NWM).
Cardiidz Cockles (E 157)
LAEVICARDIUM CRASSUM (Gmelin) E 157 3
Dale Beach, one in sand, 24.9.49, (GO) : Dale Roads, dredged,
two, 25.9.50, ( JHB) ; one, 10.10.50, (EMT).
CarDIUM ExIGUUM Gmelin (BY Plate xviii)
Black Rocks, two in sand, L.W.S.T., 28.3.48 ; dredged east of
Stack Rock, a few, 15.4.49, (RDP).
CARDIUM EDULE L. Common cockle (E157 ; Y 229; RY 306;
BY Plate xviii)
In muddy sand from Point Wood Beach to the Gann Flats,
Gann Saltings and Gann Estuary nearly up to Mullock Bridge.
1952 was a good year and collectors got up to 1,500 each in August.
Angle Bay, April 1953, (UB). SkoxkHotm—South Haven, one,
31.7.50, (HJMB).
CARDIUM ECHINATUM L. Spiny cockle (BY Plate xviii)
Gann Sand, very common, 6.3.50; Black Rocks, common in
sand, .W_S.1)20 9°46 7) EB).
Veneride (E 158)
DosinIA EXOLETA (L.) (E159; BY Plate xix)
Gann Flats, one 1} in., 26.9.50; S. Hook—Gelliswick, shells
common in trawl, 7.5.51, ( JHB).
Dosinta Lupinus (L.) Lincta (Montagu) (E159; BY Plate xix)
Shells only dredged off Monk Haven, 23.4.51, (EMT).
VeENus (CHIONE) OVATA (Pennant) (E159; BY Plate xix)
Several in dredge half mile east of Thorn Island, 15.4.49, (RDP).
VENUus (CLAUSINELLA) FASCIATA (da Costa) (E 159; BY Plate xix)
Musselwick, one, 14.4.49, (RDP).
VENUus (CLAUSINELLA) STRIATULA (da Costa) (E159 ; BY Plate xix)
Gann Flats, one above M.T.L., 8.4.49, (RDP) ; March 1955,
(UB) : Black Rocks, common in sand, L.W.S.T., 28.3.48, (RDP);
in sand, distribution similar to that of Solen siliqua; maximum
abundance 28 per sq. m.; less abundant in muddy sand to south
west, 25.4.49, (NAH).
THE DALE FORT MARINE FAUNA 307
VENERUPIS PULLASTRA (Montagu) (E 160, as Paphia ; BY Plate xix)
Gann Flats, Black Rocks and Dale Beach. L.W.S.T. to above
L.W.N.T. Occasional.
VENERUPIS DECUSSATA (L.) FuscA Gmelin (E160 as Paphia ;
BY Plate xix)
Gann Estuary, several in stiff clay below M.T.L., with Mya
arenaria, Barnea candida and Corophium volutator, 8.9.49, (RDP).
Shells in trawl S. Hook to Gelliswick, 7.5.51, ( JHB).
Petricolidze
Mysia UNDATA (Pennant)
Shells only, Dale Beach.
Mactridz (E 165)
SPISULA SUBTRUNCATA (da Costa) (E165; BY Plate xviii)
Dale Beach, (RDP).
SPISULA ELLIPTICA (Brown) (E166; W 76; BY Plate xviii)
Black Rocks, rare in sand, L.W.S.T., 28.3.48, (RDP): Dale
Roads in trawl, 10.10.50, (EMT).
MaAcTRA CORALLINA (L.) CINEREA Montagu (E 165 ; BY Plate xviii)
Black Rocks, 28.3.48, (RDP); 7.2.51, (NAH): Dale Beach,
24.0.53:-(G 0). Rare in sand, L.W.S.T.
Lutrariide (E 166)
LuTRARIA LUTRARIA (L.) (E166; BY Plate xviii)
Gann Flats, March, 1955, (UB): Dale Beach, one, L.W.S.T.,
11.4.49, (RDP).
Asaphide (E 163)
GaRI FERVENSIS (Gmelin) (E163; BY Plate 23)
Gann Flats South, 12.10.50, (EMT); Black Rocks, 28.3.48,
(RDP). Rare in sand. L.W.S.T.
Scrobiculariide (E 162)
ABRA PRISMATICA (Montagu) (E 163)
Dale Beach, 28.3.48, (RDP).
ABRA ALBA (Wood) (E 163)
Dale Beach, 28.3.48, (RDP)
SCROBICULARIA PLANA (da Costa) (E 162; Y 255; BY Plate xvii)
Gann Stones, March 1956, (UB) : Gann Estuary, several up to:
700 yds. below Mullock Bridge, November, 1948, (NWM) ;
abundant in mud by wooden bridge, 8.4.49, (RDP).
Tellinide (E 161)
Macoma BALTHICA (L.) (E162; BY Plate xvii)
Gann Estuary, one, with Scrobicularia plana, 8.4.49, (RDP).
This is a very common species on estuarine mud flats.
308 R. BASSINDALE AND J. H. BARRETT
TELLINA FABULA Gmelin (E 162)
Gann Flats, 21.3.50, (JHB): Black Rocks, 28.3.48, (RDP) ;
7.2.51, (NAH). Common in sand, L.W.M. and below, commoner
than T. tenuis.
TELLINA TENUIs da Costa (E 161 ; Y 229; BY Plate xvii)
Gann Flats, 21.3.50, ( JHB): Black Rocks, 23.4.48 and 7.2.51,
(NAH). Rare to common in sand.
Donacide (E 161)
Donax vittTatus (da Costa) (E161; W 77; BY Plate 23)
Shells only. Dale Beach and Broadhaven.
Solenidz Razor shells (E 164)
PHAXAS PELLUCIDUs (Pennant) (BY Plate 23)
Dale Beach, 28.3.48, (RDP) ; 24.9.53 (GTJ). Rare, L.W.S.T.
SOLEN MARGINATUS Pulteney (E 164; BY Plate 23)
Shells only, Dale Beach.
Ensis ENsis (L.) (E 165; Y 233; RY 48; BY Plate 23)
Gann Flats, March, 1955, 1956 (UB) : Black Rocks, small ones
common in sand, L.W.S.T., 28.3.48, (RDP). SKomzerR—North
Haven, April 1946, (UB).
Ensis sILIQua (L.) (E 165 ; BY Plate 23)
The extensive bed of muddy sand near L.W.S.T., abundantly
occupied by this species, stretches across Dale Sands and Gann
Flats South and East, and is one of the main features of the Field
Centre’s marine fauna. Also in Angle Bay.
PHARUS LEGUMEN MAJOR Bucquoy (E164; BY Plate xvii)
Gann Flats, one, dead, 21.3.50, (JHB): Black Rocks, one in
sand, L.W.S.T., and dead shells, 7.2.51, (NAH) : Dale Beach, one,
15.9.54, (GT).
Hiatellide (E 167) -
HIATELLA aArcTicA (L.) (E168: W 79; Y 1703 GY Plate sc)
Widely distributed in crevices and Laminaria holdfasts. Mussel-
wick Point, Brig Stones, Castle Beach, Gunkel, St. Bride’s Haven.
SKOKHOLM—Peter’s Bay, Crab Bay, North Haven, Skom—ER—
North Haven. March, April, July, August, September.
Erodonide
CoRBULA GIBBA (Olivi) (=Alozdis) (BY Plate 23)
Off Dale Point, one in dredge, 15.8.53, (ORB).
Myide Clams (E 167)
Mya tTruncaTa L. (BY Plate 23)
Gann Estuary, one 500 yds. below Mullock Bridge, November
1948, (NWM) : Gann Flats, one, M.T.L., 20.9.49 (UCL) ; March
1955, (UB).
THE DALE FORT MARINE FAUNA 309
Mya ARENARIA L. (BY Plate 23)
Gann Estuary, occasional up to 600 yds. below Mullock Bridge
(NWM, RDP): Brig Stones, one, 26.4.48 (NAH). In sand or
clay.
Pholadide (E 168)
BARNEA CANDIDA (L.) (E168; Y178; BY Plate xx)
Gann Flats, Gann Estuary, in localised patches in heavy mud
or clay below M.T.L., (UCL, RDP).
Teredinide Ship-worms (E 169)
TEREDO NORVEGICA Spengler (E169; BY Plate xx)
Musselwick Point, two in wreck, 14.4.49, (RDP) ; one 26.3.52.
(NWM).
TTEREDO NAVALIS L. (E170 ; Y 171, 174, 180, 181 ; RY 136-8, 141,
145, 840, 151 ; BY Plate xx)
Numerous in driftwood, March 1949, (NWM). ‘This very im-
portant species bores into marine wood-works and makes it neces-
sary for all wooden boats operating in tropical or sub-tropical
waters to be sheathed in copper. Good accounts are given in the
references cited above. Attention may be directed to the fact that the
shell valves, used in boring are so reduced as no longer to enclose the
body. The burrow is lined by a separate calcareous tube secreted
by the exposed mantle tissues. Recent control measures include
the use of depth charges which kill the animals in their burrows.
Pandoridze
PANDORA PINNA (Montagu)
Dale Roads, one, dredged, 28.8.56, (GEB).
Thracide
THRACIA PHASEOLINA (Lamarck)
Dale Beach, one in sand, L.W.S.T., 24.9.53, (GTJ).
Class CEPHALOPODA (H 267)
Order DECACERA Ccuttlefish and squids.
Sepiide Cuttlefish
SEPIA ELEGANS Orbigny
Shell only, West Dale Bay (UMG)
SEPIA OFFICINALIS L. Common cuttlefish (W 93 96; DW 74;
We 2Or iy F032, 210 >) 274, 286°;) BY Plate xx1)
Dale Roads, one in trawl, 1 ft. long, 4.9.50, (JHB): Castle
Beach Bay, one in trawl, 29.9.50, (GTJ). SkokHoLtm—an Atlantic
Seal seen with one in its mouth, 11.4.47, (T. Bagenal).
This abundant sub-littoral species ranges southwards into
tropical waters and is a familiar feature of the shallow seas.
310 R. BASSINDALE AND J. H. BARRETT
Sepiolidx
SEPIOLA ATLANTICA Orbigny (H 277; BY Plate xxi)
Gann Flats at edge of tide; two, 8.6.49; one, 6.3.50 ( JHB):
one, 22.8.53, (ORB): Watwick Bay, one in rock pool, 8.3.55,
(JM). A beautiful little animal.
Loliginide Squids
ALLOTEUTHIS SUBULATA (Lamarck) (H278)
Dale, one, Sept. 1951, (UCL).
LOLIGO FORBESI Steenstrup (BY Plate xxi)
One from trawler off St. Govan’s—Caldy Island, 19.9.52, (GTJ).
Order OCTOPODA Octopus (W 89-91 ; DW 96, 98; Y 122)
Octopodide
ELEDONE CIRRHOSA (Lamarck) (DW 76, 96; BY Plate xxi)
Dale Beach, one, L.W.S.T., 2.4.50, (NWM) ; one, September,
1951, (UCL): St. Ann’s Head, one, 25.3.52, (NWM). SxKox-
HOLM—North Haven, one, caught and held by one tentacle by a
limpet. Released and kept alive for several days, 20.9.55.
The cephalopods have a very well developed mechanism which
permits very rapid colour changes in many species—notably the
squids. ‘These latter are also very efficient swimmers and are
believed to be extremely abundant in the open ocean.
Phylum CHATOGNATHA
SAGITTA SETOSA J. Miiller (BY Plate 11)
Dale, common in plankton, September 1951, (UCW).
The arrow-worms are common in the plankton of many seas and
the two species common in British waters have been used at Ply-
mouth as “ biological indicators ’’ as S$. setosa is characteristic of
North Sea waters and S. elegans of oceanic waters. ‘The distribution
of §. elegans therefore gives a measure of the penetration of rich
Atlantic waters around our coasts.
Phylum KAMPTOZOA (=Polyzoa Entoprocta, E 219, 224)
Pedicillinide (E 224)
PEDICILLINA CERNUA (Pallas) (E 224)
Brig Stones, on Polysiphonia, 25.4.49 ; Castle Beach, on Sertular-
ella polyzonias, L.W.S.T., 27.8.49 ; Dale Roads, frequent on polyzoa
in dredge and trawl, September 1949, (GO).
THE DALE FORT MARINE FAUNA 311
BARENTSIA GRACILIS (Sars) (E 224)
Castle Beach, rare on red weeds, 13.9.54, (UCW).
LOXOSOMELLA PHASCOLOSOMATA (Vogt)
Gann Stones, on Golfingia, 28.3.38, (RDP).
Phylum POLYZOA s. str. (=Polyzoa Ectoprocta, E.220 ; H.179,
190)
Order CYCLOSTOMATA
Crisiide (E 223)
CRISIDIA CORNUTA (L.) (E 223)
Castle Beach, common, L.W.S.T., 11.4.49, (RDP).
CRISIA EBURNEA (L.) (E 223)
Slip Pier Beach, on red algae in Fucus serratus zone, 21.3.49,
(DWS) : Great Castle Head, on red algae in pools, 15.9.49, (GO).
CRIsIA DENTICULATA (Lamarck)
Castle Beach, (RDP, JHB).
Lichenoporide
LICHENOPORA HISPIDA (Fleming)
Castle Beach, two colonies, L.W.S.T., 11.4.49, (RDP).
Order GYMNOLAEMATA
Sub-Order CHEILOSTOMATA
Aeteide
AETEA ANGUINA (L.)
SKOKHOLM—North Haven, Peter’s Bay, Little Bay, South Haven,
August 1950, (RH). On Chondrus crispus, Halecium halecinum,
Scrupocellaria reptans, Laminaria holdfasts, other weeds and in pools.
AETEA SICA (Hincks) (recta)
SKOKHOLM—On other polyzoa.
Scrupariide (—Eucrateide)
SCRUPARIA CHELATA (L.)
Castle Beach, luxuriant growths on Lomentaria, L.W.S.T.,
27.8.49, (GO). SkoxHotm—North Haven, Peter’s Bay, Little
Bay, Dumbell Bay. Common, August 1950, on Chondrus, hold-
fasts and stripes of Laminaria, Agleophema, Tubularia, Crisia and
Bugula, (RH).
Membraniporide (E 221)
MEMBRANIPORA MEMBRANACEA (L.) (E211; Y 38, 139; RY 60;
(BY Plate iii).
Dale Roads, (RDP).
312 R. BASSINDALE AND J. H. BARRETT
ELECTRA PILOSA (L.)
Gann Stones, March 1955 (UB); Gann Flats, Gateholm,
28.3.48, (RDP).
Flustride (E 221)
FLUSTRA FOLIACEA (L.) (E221; BY Plates ii and xxv)
Lobster pots at Skokholm, 26.6.50, (from Mr. F. Sturley, JHB).
Cellariidz
CELLARIA FISTULOSA Hincks
SKOKHOLM—on Maza squinado and common on Nemertesia anten-
nina, 26.6.50, (from Mr. F. Sturley, JHB).
Scrupocellariide (E 220 as Cellulariide)
SCRUPOCELLARIA REPTANS (L.) (E 220)
Gann Stones, March, 1956, (UB): Brig Stones, common,
L.W.S.T., 25.4.49, (GO): Castle Beach, common under ledges,
L.W.S.T., 11.4.49, (RDP). SkokHotm—North Haven, Peter’s
Bay, Little Bay. Occasional on weeds, holdfasts, Aglaophenia and
rocks. Common below L.W.S.T. at Little Bay, August 1950,
(RH). :
Bicellariide (E 221)
BUGULA TURBINATA Alder (E 221; BY Plate 111)
Musselwick Point, rare, 28.3.48, (RDP) : Dale Point, abundant,
28.7.49 ; Castle Beach, rare, 29.7.49, (GO). On rocks and under
boulders and ledges.
Schizoporellidz
SCHIZOPORELLA HYALINA (L.)
Dale Road, trawled on Laminaria saccharina, 8.4.49, (RDP).
Hippoporinide
CRYPTOSULA PALLASIANA (Moll) (=Lepralia)
Musselwick Point, Slip Pier Beach, common under boulders,
L.W.sS. 0.5 26-940 .(R DE).
Umbonulide
UMBONULA VERRUCOSA (Esper.) (E 222)
Castle Beach, abundant below M.T.L., 11.4.49, (RDP).
Order CTENOSTOMATA
Alcyonidiide (E 223 ; BY Plate ii)
ALCYONIDIUM GELATINOSUM (L.) (E 223)
Musselwick, 28.3.48, (RDP): Slip Pier Beach, abundant,
L.W.M., September 1948: Gateholm, 28.3.48, (RDP): Monk
Haven, abundant, L.W.M., September 1948: SkokHOoLM—one
large colony on lobster pot, 2.9.50, (from Mr. F. Sturley, JHB).
THE DALE FORT MARINE FAUNA 313:
ALCYONIDIUM HIRSUTUM (Fleming) (E 224)
Slip Pier Beach, one colony on red alga, 24.9.50, (EMS) : Dale
Fort Beach, 28.3.53 : West Dale Bay, two colonies washed up,,.
27,0,50,)( SELB).
Flustrellide (E 224)
FLUSTRELLA HISPIDA (Fabricius) (E224; Y 141)
Gann Stones, March 1956, (UB): Dale Fort Beach, very
abundant on Gigartina stellata and Fucus serratus, 28.4.50, ( JHB).
Vesiculariide
VESICULARIA SPINOSA (L.)
Dale Roads, on stone in dredge, 19.9.49, (GO).
BOWERBANKIA IMBRICATA (Adams) ,
Brig Stones, on Ascophyllum, 29.6.50, ( JHB).
Phylum ECHINODERMATA (E 15, 227-8 ; H 193)
The radial symmetry of the echinoderms, associated with a com-.
plex organisation which includes such unique morphological
features as hydraulic tube feet, pedicillariae, movable spines, sub-.
dermal skeleton, a nerve system with multiple centres of control,.
etc., marks this entirely marine phylum as one of special interest..
In addition, various species are adapted, somewhat unexpectedly,
to the widest range of habitats from the oceanic abyss and the
plankton to the intertidal zone, including mud, sand and rocky
areas ; and to such diverse habits as a sessile or free living life ; to
life on rock and on or in sand or mud ; to ciliary feeding, detritus-.
eating or predation. Their larvae are mainly planktonic and are
extremely characteristic.
Class CRINOIDEA Sea-lilies (E 228)
Antedonide (E 228)
ANTEDON BIFIDA (Pennant) Rosy feather star (E228; Y 37;
RY 64; BY Plate 26)
Occasional, L.W.S.T., Musselwick, Slip Pier Beach, Castle
Beach, Great Castle Head, Monk Haven. Skomer—Mew Stone.
March, April, September. None present at Dale Point, 25.3.51,,
(NWM).
Class ASTEROIDEA Star-fish (E 228-9)
Order PHANEROZONIA
Astropectinide
ASTROPECTEN IRREGULARIS (Pennant) (DW 100; BY Plate 25)
From trawler, St. Govan’s—Caldy Island, one, 19.9.52, (GTJ)..
A sand- burrowing sub-littoral species.
314 R. BASSINDALE AND J. H. BARRETT
Order SPINULOSA \_/
Asterinide (E 230)
ASTERINA GIBBOSA (Pennant) (E230; DW 42; Y158; BY
Plate 25)
Rare in Dale Bay (Slip Pier Beach, 28.3.49, DWS), but common
outside—Castle Beach, Watwick Bay, Mill Bay, Great Castle Head,
West Dale Bay, Angle Bay. L.W.M., March, April, May, Septem-
ber.
Solasteride (E 230 ; W 97)
SOLASTER (CROSSASTER) PAPPOSUS (L.) (BY Plate 24)
Occasional in dredge—off Watch House Point, Monk Haven,
Dale Point and Llangwm. January, July, September.
Echinasteridz
HENRICIA SANGUINOLENTA (O. F. Miller) (E 231; T 167; BY
Plate 24)
Single specimens from Slip Pier Beach, Dale Point, Watwick
Bay. SkokHoLtM—South Haven (two). SKkomeER—Mew Stone
(two). March, April, July, September.
Order FORCIPULATA
Asteriide (E 229, Y 164)
ASTERIAS RUBENS L. Common star-fish (E 229 ; W99; DW 102 ;
Y166 ; RY 20; El 191% BY Plates,
Gann Stones, Gann Flats, Black Rocks, Wooltack Point, Angle
Bay, off S. Hook (dredged), off St. Govan’s. and Caldy Island
(trawled). SKkokHotm—Crab Bay, Wallsend Bay. SkomER—
Mew Stone, North Haven, Midland Isle. Widespread in small
numbers. Common at Gann Stones on 20.3.50, but not present
two weeks earlier, (JHB). L.W.S.T. and below.
MARTHASTERIAS GLACIALIS (L.) (E230; DW 50; Y 167 BY
Plate 24) | |
Occasional specimens from L.W.S.T. at Castle Bay, Great
Castle Head, West Dale Bay, SkoxHoLmM—Crab Bay and SkoMER—
Mew Stone. Also from the sub-littoral, Hog Bay on Skokholm
and from trawler St. Govan’s—Caldy Island. Up to 15% ins.
across. Spawning, 5.4.50, ( JHB).
Class OPHIUROIDEA bBrittle-stars (E 231-3)
Order OPHIURAE
Ophiotrichide (E 233)
OPHIOTHRIX FRAGILIS (Abildgaard) (E233; W 102, 123, 125;
DW 108; Y159;. H 190; BY Plate 26)
t
y
F
4
THE DALE FORT MARINE FAUNA 315
Widespread and fairly common. Gann Stones, Dale Beach,
Point Wood Beach, Slip Pier Beach, Dale Point, Castle Beach,
Great Castle Head, Martin’s Haven, Dale Roads (dredge). SKox-
HOLM—Crab Bay, Hog Bay, South Haven. Sxkomer—North
Haven, Mew Stone, L.W.M. and below. March, April, July,
September.
Ophiocomide (E 234)
OPHIOCOMINA NIGRA (Abildgaard) (E234; W125; DW 108;
RY 64. BY Plate 26)
- Martin’s Haven, one, Spetember 1948. SKOoKHOLM—Hog Bay,
two, 27.3.52, (ECJ) ; 14.9.54, (HJM). Sxkomer—North Haven,
three, April 1956, (UB).
Ophiactide (E 234)
OPpHIACTIS BALLI (Thompson) (E 234)
SKOKHOLM, 12.4.48, (BW)
Amphiuride (E 235)
AMPHIURA CHIAJEI Forbes
Dale Beach, 26.7.50, (MRY) ; 28.3.53, (MRY) ; SxkoxkHOLM—
mear the Stack, 15.8.47, (CT).
ACROCNIDA BRACHIATA (Montagu) Burrowing brittle-star (E 235 ;
Dy 199) BY Plate 26)
Gann Flats, March 1955, 1956, (UB): Black Rocks, in sand,
L.W.S.T., 28.3.48, (RDP) ; September 1948, (UCL) : Angle Bay,
April, 1953, (UB).
AMPHIPHOLIS SQUAMATA (Delle Chiaje) (E 236; BY Plate 26)
Gann Stones, Gann Flats, Dale Beach, Slip Pier Beach, Gunkel,
Great Castle Head, Martin’s Haven, Dale Roads (dredge), Castle
Beach Bay (dredge). SkokHoLmM—Crab Bay, Peter’s Bay, South
Haven. Under stones, in pools, in Laminaria holdfasts. Common.
Ophiolepide (E 236; BY Plate 26)
OPHIURA TEXTURATA Lamarck
Dale Beach, Castle Beach, 28.3.48, (RDP) : dredged off Thorn
Island, 15.4.49, (GO) ; off Watch House Point, 1.9.49, (GO);
m Dale Roads, \28.3.48, (RDP); 31.3.53, (MRY). Occasional.
OPpHIURA ALBIDA Forbes
Gann Flats, March 1955, (UB): Dale Beach, Castle Beach,
28.3.48. (GO): dredged off Thorn Island, 15.4.49, (GO) ; off
Watch House Point, 1.9.49, (GO); in Dale Roads, 28.3.48,
(RDP). Common.
316 R. BASSINDALE AND J. H. BARRETT
Class ECHINOIDEA Sea urchins (E 237)
Order DIADEMATOIDEA
Echinide (E 238)
PSAMMECHINUS MILIARIS (Gmelin) (E238; W105; Hig0; BY
Plate 27)
From Musselwick Point to Dale Point, Castle Beach, Watwick.
Bay, Stack Rock, Dale Roads (dredged). SkoxHo~tm—Crab Bay,
South Haven. SkomEeEr—North Haven, Mew Stone. In small
numbers near L.W.M. Common at Gann Stones and Castle
Beach, 12.4.49, and at Stack Rock, 25.9.53. The Stack Rock
specimens included some larger than Mortensen’s maximum of
50 mm. and the Dale Bay specimens often have on them the worm,
Flabelligera affinis.
ECHINUS ESCULENTUS L. (E 239; W104; DW 20; Y 165, 168;
RY 30,211, 2253 5° BY) Plate 27)
Martin’s Haven, abundant on vertical rock faces up to 5 feet
above L.W.E.S.T., April 1946, (RDP) : Dale Roads, one in lobster
pot, March 1949, (NWM). SKxoxHotm—one in lobster pot,
24.7.56, (from Mr. H. Sturley, JM).
Order SPATANGOIDEA
Spatangide
ECHINOCARDIUM CORDATUM (Pennant) (E 241 ; DW 130; Y 238-9;
RY 56); BY Plate 27)
Common in localised patches, burrowing in sand near L.W.S.T.
Dale Sands, Gann Flats South and (possibly) East. With Monta-
cuta ferruginosa.
Class HOLOTHUROIDEA Sea Cucumbers (E 241)
Order DENDROCHIROTA
Cucumariide
CUCUMARIA SAXICOLA Brady and Robertson (E242; DW 20;
Y 96; RY 201) BY Plate 238)
Musselwick Point, Point Wood Beach, Slip Pier Beach, Martin’s
Haven. Skomer—North Haven. March, April, September. In
small numbers, L.W.S.T.
CUCUMARIA NORMANI Pace (E 242; BY Plate 28)
Musselwick Point, one, 28.3.48, (RDP); several, 3.4.50; three,
24.3.51, (NWM) ; March 1955, (UB).
THYONE Fusus (O. F. Miller)
Slip Pier Beach, one, 3 cm. long, 3.4.55, (JM).
THE DALE FORT MARINE FAUNA 317
Order APODA
Synaptide (E 242; Y 240; H 190)
LEPTOSYNAPTA INHAERENS (O. F. Miiller) Burrowing sea cucumber
(E 243)
Common in localised patch of muddy gravel, Gann Stones,
recorded in March or April, 1948, 50, 51, 52, 55, 50, (RDP, NWM,
UB).
Phylum CHORDATA (E 15)
Sub-Phylum HEMICHORDATA
Class ENTEROPNEUSTA (E259; H.196)
Ptychoderidz
SACCOGLOSSUS CAMBRENSIS Brambell and Cole (BY Plate 28)
Common in muddy sand, L.W.S.T., Dale Sands, extending to-
wards Musselwick. First noted by RDP and GTJ, 13.4.49, and
subsequently recorded regularly.
Sub-Phylum CEPHALOCHORDATA
AMPHIOXUS (BRANCHIOSTOMA) LANCEOLATUS (Pallas)
Dale Roads plankton, several post-larvae, 1.5 cm. long, 10.9.56,
(WALE)
Sub-Phylum TUNICATA Sea squirts (E 15, 246, 248)
Class ASCIDIACEA
Order ENTEROGONA
Sub-Order APLOUSOBRANCHIATA
Clavellinide (=Polycitoride, E 253)
CLAVELINA LEPADIFORMIS (O. F. Miller) (E 253; Y 40; BY
Plate 20)
Musselwick, groups in mid-littoral pools, 16.6.50, ( JHB) :
Brig Stones, under rocks, also small specimens with only four rows
of stigmata, 26.7.50, (MRY).
Polyclinide (=—Synoicide, E 253-4)
MorcHeE.tiium arcus (Milne Edwards)
Slip Pier Beach, common under stones at Fucus serratus level,
7-6.49; ( JHB).
318 R. BASSINDALE AND J. H. BARRETT
Sub-Order PHLEBOBRANCHIATA
Cionide (E 252)
CIONA INTESTINALIS (L.) (E253; W107; BY Plate 29)
Castle Beach, two, 11.4.49, (RDP) ; frequent, 28.7.49, (GO) :
West Dale Bay, one, 14.9.50, (EMT). L.W.S.T.
Corellide (—Rhodosomatide, E 251)
CORELLA PARALLELOGRAMMA (O. F. Miiller) (E251) _
Black Rocks, under stones, September 1948, (UCL).
Ascidiide (E 251)
ASCIDIELLA ASPERSA (O. F. Miiller) (BY Plate 29)
Occasional specimens from Musselwick Point, Black Rocks,
Point Wood Beach, Castle Beach, Gateholm and Dale Roads.
March, September. L.W.M. and below.
ASCIDIA MENTULA O. F. Miller (BY Plate 29)
Musselwick Point, Black Rocks, Castle Beach, Dale Roads
(dredge). L.W.M. and below. Occasional.
ASCIDIA CONCHILEGA O. F. Miiller
Musselwick, one, March 1948 (RDP); Brig Stones, 26.7.50 ;
Dale Roads, dredge, 31.3.53 (MRY). Under stones.
Order PLEUROGONA
Sub-Order STOLIDOBRANCHIATA
Styelide (E 249, includes Botryllide, E 250)
DENDRODOA GROSSULARIA (van Beneden) (E250; W107; Y 170;
BY Plate 29)
Castle Beach, good growth in small cave, 11.4.49, (RDP) :
Dale Roads, dredge, 31.3.53, (MRY): the main Milford Haven
channel, widespread on stones and shells, releasing larvae ,18.9.53,
(EMS).
BOTRYLLUS SCHLOSSERI (Pallas) (BY Plate 29)
Musselwick Point, Gann Stones, Dale Beach, Frenchman’s Path,
Slip Pier Beach, Dale Fort Beach, Gateholm, Stack Rock, Angle
Bay. SxkokHotm—Peter’s Bay, Crab Bay, North Haven. Occa-
sional to abundant. March, May, June, August, September.
Largest colonies recorded in May, June, July. A Musselwick
colony was brick red in colour and had no stellate pattern. ‘The
colour of this species is variable.
BoTRYLLOIDES LEACHI (Savigny) (BY Plate 29)
Musselwick, Gann Estuary, Dale Beach, Slip Pier Beach, Angle
Bay. Occasional, March, September. Stack Rock, abundant,
7.5.51.
THE DALE FORT MARINE FAUNA 319
Molgulide (E 249)
MOoLGULA OCULATA Forbes
Dale Beach, a few lying free, L.W.S.T., September 1948, (RDP).
The genera Didemnum, Amaroucium and Orkopleura have been
tentatively recorded.
Sub-Phylum VERTEBRATA
Class SELACHII Dog fisbes and sharks (Elasmobranchs)
Order PLEUROTREMATA
Isuride (TJ 310 Lamnidz)
CETORHINUS MAxIMus (Gunnerus) Basking shark (TJ 314, Plate 122)
Watwick Bay, 20.7.51 ; Dale Roads, 28.8.51, ( JHB).
Scylliorhinide (TJ 317)
SCYLLIORHINUS STELLARIS (L.) Greater or larger spotted-
dogfish or nursehound (TJ 318, Plate 131 ; DW 44)
In lobster pots, one, 18.6.61, (EMT) ; St. Ann’s, two, 5.10.51,
( JHB).
SCYLLIORHINUS CANICULUs (L.) Lesser spotted or common dogfish,
rough dog (TJ 318 Plate 131 : DW 36, 112)
Occasionally taken in Dale Roads. Egg cases abundant on
Hlalidrys, L.W.S.T. at Musselwick Point, two hatched, October
1948, (GDW).
Carcharinide
EuGALEus GALEus (L.) Tope (TJ 308 Plate 129)
Dale Roads, one netted by Mr. F. Sturley, November 1956,
(JM).
Squalide
SQUALUs ACANTHIAS L. Piked dogfish or spur dog (TJ 321 Plate
131
see Haven, two dead on beach, 5.1.51, ( JHB).
Squatinide
SQUATINA SQUATINA (L.) Monk or angel-fish (TJ 328 Plate 127;
DW 52)
Dale Roads in nets, 9.9.50; 25.9.51, ( JHB).
Order HYPOTREMATA
Torpedinide
TORPEDO NOBILIANA Bonaparte Electric ray (TJ 329 Plate 128 ;
DW 52)
Dale Roads in trawl ; September 1948, (RDP): one male about
40 lbs., July 1952, ( JHB).
320 R. BASSINDALE AND J. H. BARRETT
Rajide (TJ 330-1 ; W 119)
Raja cLavaTa L. Thornback ray or roker (TJ 338 Plate 134;
C 197; DW 36)
Dale Roads, frequent in trawl up to ro lbs., 1948 to 1951.
With Pontobdella, 21.7.49, (GO).
RajA MONTAGUI Fowler Spotted or homelyn ray (TJ 339 Plate
138)
Dale Roads in trawl, April 1949, (RDP); 23.7.49, (GO).
Off St. Govan’s—Caldy Island, 19.9.52, (GTJ).
RajJA MICROOCELLATA Montague, Painted or small eyed ray
(TJ 337 Plate 137)
Dale Roads, trawl, 10.10.50, (EMT).
Rajya Batis L. Common skate (TJ 334 Plate 133)
From trawler, off St. Govan’s—Caldy Island, 19.9.52, (GTJ).
Class PISCES
Sub-Class NEOPTERYGII
Order ISOSPONDYLI
Clupeide (TJ 255) :
CLUPEA HARENGUsS L. Herring (TJ 256 Plates 106, 109; C 236-
249: DW ~150); RY 9270, 320, 941)
Dale Roads in nets, September, November, December, January.
Heavy catches at Llangwm, 27.3.52, (JHB). A very early one
11 ins. long, 29.8.56, ( JHB).
CLUPEA sPRATTUS L. Sprat (TJ 261 Plate 117)
Gann Flats, coming in with the tide, 22.8.53, (ORB).
ALOSA FINTA (Cuvier) Twaite Shad (TJ 264 Plate 104)
Point Wood Beach, in net, one, 10 in. long, 4.9.54, (from Mr. F.
Sturley, JHB).
Salmonidx (TJ 215)
SALMO sALAR L. Salmon (TJ 215 Plates 87-92; C 199-201)
Dale, occasional in nets, 5.9.51, ( JHB).
Satmo TRuTTA L. Sea, brown or salmon trout (TJ 227, Plates
nis,
Taken fairly regularly in nets in Dale Bay : up to 1$ lbs. Some
of this species stay in fresh water as brown trout, some migrate
to feed in estuaries, others migrate to sea for feeding and become
sea or salmon trout.
THE DALE FORT MARINE FAUNA 321
Order APODES
Anguillide Eels (E 263 ; TJ 266)
ANGUILLA ANGUILLA (L.) Common eel (E 263 ; TJ 267 Plate 111 ;
C 201-3; RY 87,93; BY Plate xxii)
The Leptocephalus larva drifts across the Atlantic from the
Sargasso Sea and changes into a glass eel, at about 3 years of age,
and may be taken on the shore in March and April as it makes for
fresh water. Some stay (as yellow eels) and grow on the shore,
particularly in or near estuaries. Others go into fresh water
streams or ponds and return years later to the sea as silver eels, to
spawn in the Sargasso sea. Glass and yellow eels have been re-
corded in various parts of the Dale peninsula, at Angle Bay and on
SKOKHOLM.
Congride
GoncerR: GONGeER (L.) Conger eel (E263; TJ 273 Plate 112;
BY Plate xxii)
Small specimens live on the shore and have been recorded up to
14, ins. long from Gann Stones, Black Rocks, Brig Stones and Gate-
holm. Occasionally up to 20 lbs. in lobster pots.
Order SOLENICHTHYES
Syngnathide Pipe fishes (E 264 ; TJ 208)
ENTELURUS AEQUOREUS (L.) Snake or ocean pipe fish (E 265 ;
i} 20G) Plateo4; DW 92; Y.113; BY Plate xxii)
Musselwick, one, 25.9.49, (UCW) : Dale Roads, one, dredge,
7.9.49, (UCL).
NEROPHIS LUMBRICIFORMIS Pennant Worm pipe fish (E 265 ;
TJ 210 Plate 84; BY Plate xxii)
All rocky shores in Dale Bay (except Black Rocks), Castle Beach,
Watwick Bay, Gateholm, Martin’s Haven, Skokholm and Skomer.
The males carry the eggs and these have been recorded in March,
April and August. The August ones were hatching.
NEROPHIS OPHIDION (L.) Straight nosed pipe fish (E 265; TJ 209
Plate 84)
@zsle Beach, 23.93.52 ; 26.39/52, one 18 ms. long, (JHB).
SYNGNATHUs acus L. Great pipe fish (E 265; TJ 209 Plate
84; BY Plate xxii)
Dale Beach, one on Laminaria, September 1948, (RDP).
SIPHONOSTOMA TYPHLE (L.) Broad nosed pipe fish (E 265 ;
TJ 208 Plate 84)
Gann Flats, one, 23.9.49, (UCL).
322 R. BASSINDALE AND J. H. BARRETT
Order ANACANTHINI
Merlucciide
MeErRLuccIus MERLUCCIUsS (L.) Hake (TJ 157 Plate 61)
From trawler St. Govan’s—Caldy Island, 19.9.52, (GTJ).
Gadide (E 266; TJ 131-2)
GADUS CALLARIAS L. Cod (TJ 134 Plate 55)
Dale Roads, in trammel nets and on lines, September 1950,
1.1.51 : August, September, 1952, (JHB):
Gavus Luscus L. Bibor pout (TJ 138 Plate 54)
Dale Roads in trammel, trawl and herring nets: September 1950;
January, September, 1951, (JHB). From trawler St. Govan’s—
Caldy Island, 19.9.51, (GIJ) : SxoxHo~tm—South Bay, August,
1O50-
GADUS MERLANGUs L. Whiting (TJ 150 Plate 57)
Dale Roads, in herring nets, January 1952, (JHB): from
trawler St. Govan’s—Caldy Island, 19.9.52. (GTJ).
GabDus vIRENS L. Coal fish or saithe (TJ 149 Plate 58)
Musselwick Point, in pollack nets, December 1950; January
1951 : SKOKHOLM—off Crab Rocks on spinner, 5.7.52, ( JHB).
Gapvus POLLAcHIUs L. Pollack (TJ 152 Plate 57 ; DW 72)
Gann Estuary, one, 23.7.49, (GO): Dale Roads, in trawl,
trammel and herring nets, July 1949, (GO) ; January, September,
1951 ( JHB).
Onos MusTELus (L.) Five-bearded rockling (E 266; TJ 163 Plate
63)
Common all over Dale Bay, Castle Beach, Watwick Bay, Gate-
holm, Angle Bay, Dale Roads (trawl) ; SxkokHoLtm—Crab Bay ;
SKOMER—North Haven. March, April, July, September.
ONOs MEDITERRANEUS (L.) Three-bearded rockling (E 266; TJ
162 Plate 63 ; DW 94; YB Plate xxiii)
The intertidal species is probably O. mediterraneus and the deep
water one O. tricirratus (Bloch).
Abundant at Gann Stones, also recorded at Dale Beach, Slip
Pier Beach, Watwick Bay. SkoxHotmM—Crab Bay, South Haven,
Peter’s Bay. Skomer—North and South Havens. March, April,
July, September.
Order ZEOMORPHI
Zeid
ZEUS FABER L. John Dory (TJ 82 Plate 31 ; W 111: DW 72, 88,
90)
Dale Roads, in trawl, two each 1 ft. long, 27.9.50, (GT).
THE DALE FORT MARINE FAUNA 323
Order PERCOMORPHI
Serranide (E 279)
MoroneE LABRAX (L.) Bass (E 279; TJ 34 Plate 2)
Dale Roads, in trawl, trammel and herring nets, and by beating
in the Gann. January, September 1951, (JHB); 28.9.50,
(GE):
Carangidze
TRACHURUS TRACHURUs (L.) Horse mackerel (TJ 78 Plate 25).
From trawler, off St. Govan’s—Caldy Island, 19.9.52, (GTYJ).
Mullide Mullet
MuLLus suRMULETUS L. Red mullet (TJ 37 Plate 3 ; DW 84)
Dale Roads, one in herring nets, 6.9.51, ( JHB).
Labride Wrasse (E 278, TJ 127, BY Plate 30)
LABRUS BERGYLTA Ascanius Ballan wrasse (EK 278; TJ 128
Platen52.; DW 128; Y 112 ; BY Plate 30)
Brig Stones, Musselwick, Stack Rock, Dale Roads (trawl).
Up to 134 ins. long. March, May, July, September.
LABRUs ossiFacus L. (=L. mixtus) Striped, red or cuckoo wrasse
(@iy-129) Plate 52)
Musselwick, one, 2 ins. long, 7.3.50, ( JHB).
CRENILABRUS MELOPS (L.) Corkwing, conner, gilt-head, Baillon’s
wrasse or sea partridge (E 278 ; ‘TJ 129 Plate 52 ; BY Plate 30)
Musselwick, Gann Flats, Brig Stones. March, April, September.
CTENOLABRUS RUPESTRIS (L.) Gold-sinny (E 279; TJ 130; DW
you. BY Plate 30)
Musselwick, one, 25.9.49, (UCW).
Ammodytide Sand-eels (E 266 ; TJ 165)
The systematics of the genus Ammodytes are involved.
AMMODYTES LANCEOLATUS Lesauvage Greater sand eel (E 266 ;
ae nooeElate 64.2 Y 107; BY Plate xxii)
Monk Haven, sand at L.W.M., September, 1948 and 1949,
(UCL) : Marloes Sands, 7.9.56, (JM).
AMMODYTES TOBIANUS L. Lesser sand eel (E 266; TJ 166 Plate
64)
Gann Flats, two among Arenicola, 28.3.48, (RDP); March
1955, (UB): Dale Beach, one, L.W.S.T., 13.4.49; Gateholm,
28.3.48, (RDP). Skomer—South Haven, two, April 1946,
(UB).
324 R. BASSINDALE AND J. H. BARRETT
Scombridz
SCOMBER scoMBRUS L. Mackerel
Mackerel usually appear about July roth (Marloes Fair) in
Dale waters and have been recorded in September 1948, 1950 and
1951. But early records were obtained off Skokholm on 5.7.52 and
27.5.56, ( JHB).
Gobiide Gobies (E271; TJ 87)
GoBIUS NIGER L. Black goby (E272 ; TJ 91 Plate 42 ; BY Plate 32)
Dale Beach, one, 23.9.49, (UCW); one, 2.4.50, (NWM).
Gopius PAGANELLUS L. Rock goby (E 272; TJ 92 Plate 29;
DW 90; Xo9775 bY Plate 22)
Common at Musselwick Point and Black Rocks ; occasional at
Point Wood Beach, Dale Fort Beach and Castle Beach. March,
July, August, September.
GoBIUS FLAVESCENS Fabricius (=ruthensparri Euphrasen) Spotted
goby (E 272; TJ] 94;. BY Plate 32)
Musselwick, in shoals at L.W.M., 25.9.49, (UCW): Brig
Stones, one, 2.4.50, (NWM): West Dale Bay, one, 27.9.40,
(UCW).
Gosius minutus Pallas Common or sand goby (E273; TJ 93;
¥)/129)).
Common in Gann Saltings and Gann Estuary to above Mullock
Bridge. Occasional, Gann Flats, Black Rocks and Castle Beach.
March, April, September, November.
Trachinide
TRACHINUS VIPERA Cuvier and Valenciennes (TJ 60 Plate 15;
BY Plate xxiii)
Marloes Sands, two in sand, L.W.S.T., 7.9.56, (JM).
Callionymide (TJ 98)
CALLIONYMUs LYRA L. Dragonet (TJ 99 Plate 34)
Dale Roads, one in dredge, 28.3.48, (RDP); one female in
trawl, 20.9.55, (GTJ). |
CALLIONYMUS MACULATUS Rafinesque Spotted dragonet (TJ 100
Plate 36)
Dale Roads, several juveniles in trawl (det. N. B. Marshall),
19.9.52, ( JHB).
Blennide Blennies (E 267 ; TJ 108)
BLENNIUS GATTORUGINE Bloch Tompot blenny or gattorugine
(TJ rro Plate 44; W 112; Y 129); BY Flatesou
Musselwick, one, (det. British Museum), 7.3.50, (JHB): Brig
Stones, one, 2.4.50, (NWM) :. Slip Pier Beach, 26:340) (R3F);
SKOMER—South Haven, one, April 1946, (UB),
THE DALE FORT MARINE FAUNA 325
BLENNIUS MONTAGUI Fleming (=8. galerita) Montagu’s blenny
(E 268; TJ 111 Plate 45; BY Plate 31)
Occasional ; Dale Beach, Castle Beach, Watwick Bay, Great
Castle Head, Monk Haven. SxoHotm—Peter’s Bay. June to
September.
BLENNIUS OCELLARIS L. Butterfly blenny (E268; TJ 111 Plate
44; DW 126)
Slip Pier Beach, occasional, 28.3.48, (RDP). SKoKHOLM—
Crab Bay, one, 12.4.48, (HB).
BLENNIUs PHOLIS L. Common blenny or shanny (E 268; TJ 112
iniave 4s VV 113; DW 70; RY 24; BY Plate 31)
In pools up to H.W.N.T. Common and widespread. Records
include almost every rocky shore in the area. But not the Gann
Flats and Gann Estuary.
Pholidide
PHOLIS GUNELLUS (L.) (=Centronotus) Butterfish or gunnel (E 260 ;
ae Blate40); Y129 5) RY 99; BY Plate 91)
Common at Musselwick (one guarding eggs which hatched on
collection, 28.3.48, RDP): occasional, Dale Beach to Dale Fort
Beach, Castle Beach, Watwick Bay and Angle Bay. SkoMER—
North Haven. March, April, July, November.
Mugilide Grey mullets (TJ 122)
MuciL_ LaBrosus Risso (= M. chelo) ‘Thick-lipped grey mullet.
(TJ 123 Plate 50)
Dale Roads in Mr. F. Sturley’s trammel nets, up to 6 lbs.,
September, 1950, 1951, January 1951; by beating in the Gann,
good catches 20 and 21.1.51, ( JHB).
Mucit capiro Cuvier Thin-lipped grey mullet (TJ 123)
Gann Estuary, shoals, August 1950, (GO, NWM).
Order SCLEROPAREI
Triglide Gurnards (E 274; RY 94)
TRIGLA LUCERNA L. Tub-fish, yellow or sapphirine gurnard
(hore. 1) 50) Plate r3)
Dale Bay, in trawl and trammel, September 1950 and 1951,
(JHB): from trawler off St. Govan’s and Caldy Island, 19.9.52,
(GTJ).
Cottide (E 275)
Cotrus scorprus L. Father lasher or short-spined sea scorpion
(E 276; TJ 47 Plate 10)
Occasional in pools, L.W.M., Castle Beach, Great Castle Bay
and Dale Roads (trawl). March, September.
326 R. BASSINDALE AND J. H. BARRETT
CotTus BUBALIS Euphrasen Long-spined sea scorpion (E 276;
TJ 48 Plate 8; DW 120; Y 973-~BY Plate 92)
Occasional, Musselwick Point, Watwick Bay and Angle Bay.
Cyclopteride (E 276)
CycLOPTERUs LuMPpus L. Lumpsucker (E 276; TJ 101 Plate 39,
413 Wuiia';. Yuro: BY Plate co)
Dale Roads, one in trawl 28.7.49, (GO): one, 1 in. long, in
Laminaria from buoy, 17.9.49, (UCL). SkokHo_m—one dead in
South pond, 2.9.56. |
Liparidide (E 277)
Liparis MONTAGUI Donovan Montagu’s sea-snail (E 277 ; TJ 105
Plates 38, 53 ; Y 103 ; BY Plate 30)
Slip Pier Beach, one, L.W.S.T., 28.3.48, (RDP) : Watwick Bay,
one, 24.3.52, (NWM): Dale Roads, (RDP): Angle Bay, April
1953, (UB).
Gasterosteidz Sticklebacks (E 264)
SPINACHIA SPINACHIA (L.) Fifteen spined stickleback (E 264 ;
Ty'125 Plate 396; DW 78> BY Plateow
Occasional, Gann Stones, Gann Mouth, Angle Bay and Dale
Roads (trawl). March, April. One had tubercles instead of
spines, 7.3.50, ( JHB).
The common fresh-water three-spined stickleback, Gasterosteus
aculeatus, is often found in estuaries and in the sea but has not yet
been recorded here.
Order HETEROSOMATA _ Filat-fish
Bothide
SCOPHTHALMUS MAxIMuS (L.) ‘Turbot (TJ 200 Plate 77; BY
Plate xxiv) :
Dale Roads, trawl, up to 18 ins. long ; 4.11.50 3 7.5.51 3 25-9.51 ;
26.3.52, ( JHB).
SCOPHTHALMUS RHOMBUS (L.) Brill
Dale Roads, trawl, one, April 1949, (RDP) ; one 7? ins. long,
1.11.50, ( JHB).
Pleuronectide (E 273-4 ; TJ 169)
Flat fish can change colour to match the bottom on which they
lie” (RY 1815139).
LIMANDA LIMANDA L. Dab (E274; TJ 185 Plate 71; Y 113)
Dale Roads, trawl, several, April 1949, (RDP); common
during September 1950, ( JHB). |
THE DALE FORT MARINE FAUNA 327
PLEURONECTES PLATESSA L. Plaice (E274; TJ 171 Plate 65;
Wyeero. °C 299-4 > DW 86, 117'5 RY 320, 3215. BY Plate
XXIV)
Dale Roads, trawl and trammel, up to 18 ins. long ; September
1948, (RDP); September 1950, (common) ; November 1950 ;
January, April, 1951, ( JHB).
PLATICHTHYyS FLESUS (L.) Flounder or fluke (E.274; ‘TJ 187
Plate 72; BY Plate xxiv)
Dale Roads, trawl and trammel, up to 3 lbs.; April 1940,
(RDP) ; September 1949; January 1951: Gann Estuary, small
specimens 400 yds. above Mullock Bridge with fresh water fauna, in
salinity less than 0.7%, 27.3.52, (NWM). |
The young of the flounder are known to feed in estuaries and
even to penetrate right into fresh water.
ZEUGOPTERUS PUNCTATUS (Bloch) ‘Top-knot (TJ 205 Plate 82 ;
BY Plate xxiv)
Gunkel, one in rock pool, 18.9.55, (GTJ).
Soleide (TJ 193 ; W 117)
SOLEA SOLEA (L.) Sole, common or Dover sole (TJ 195 Plate 76 ;
DW 86)
Black Rocks, two in sand, L.W.S.T., 28.3.48, (RDP): Dale
Roads, in dredge, trawl and trammel up to Io ins. long ;_ 28.3.48,
(RDP) ; September 1950, 1951, ( JHB).
BUGLOSSIDIUM LUTEUM (Risso) (=Solea lutea) Solenette (TJ 198
Plate 80)
Gann Flats, 1 in. long at edge of tide, 26.4.49, ( JHB).
Order XENOPTERYGII
Gobiesocide (E 270 ; TJ 106-7)
LEPADOGASTER GOUANI Lacépéde Cornish sucker (E 271 ; TJ 107
Plate 401s, Y 80, 103.; BY Plate xxii)
Abundant on SkoxHotmM—Crab Bay and on Skomer—North
Haven. Also recorded from Musselwick Point, Castle Beach,
West Dale Bay, Gateholm, Martin’s Haven. SxkoxkHo_tm—Peter’s
Bay, South Haven. Skomer—Mew Stone, South Haven. March,
April, July, August, September.
LEPADOGASTER BIMACULATUS (Bonnaterre) ‘Two-spotted sucker
(iets) 107 Plate 40: BY Plate xxi)
Musselwick Point, a few; Gateholm, one, 28.3.48, (RDP).
LEPADOGASTER CANDOLLI. Risso (=L. decandolii) Connemara
sucker (271: TJ 106 Plate 40)
SKOKHOLM—Crab Bay, one, 12.4.48, (BW).
328 R. BASSINDALE AND J. H. BARRETT
The sun-fish (Orthagoriscus mola Day =Mola mola (L.)) (TJ 212
Plate 85) occasionally drifts into British waters and Mr. F. Sturley
saw one about I cwt., off St. Ann’s Head about 1938.
Class MAMMALIA (British Mammals, L. Harrison Matthews,
Collins, London, 1952)
Order CARNIVORA
Sub-Order PINNIPEDIA
Phocide
HALICHOERUS GRYPUS (Fabricius) Grey Atlantic seal.
Common in the area, frequently seen on Skomer, Skokholm and
Grassholm. Also recorded from Martin’s Haven, Whitesands,
Monk Haven and Black Rocks (a juvenile). Breeding occurs on
Skomer and Skokholm. Seals have been seen to eat fish, squid,
conger-eel and puffin.
Order CETACEA
Sub-Order ODONTOCETI
Super-Family DELPHINOIDEA
Phocaenidz
PHOCAENA PHOCAENA (L) Common porpoise
Dale Roads and off Skokholm, March to July and September.
Delphinide
DELPHINUS DELPHIS L. Common dolphin
Schools seen in Dale Roads, 8.1.54; 10.2.55, (JHB).
LAGENORHYNCHuUs ACUTUS (Gray) White-sided dolphin
Up to 18 individuals in Dale Roads, 18.8.49, 10.2.50, 18.3.50,
( JHB).
Tursiops TRUNCATUS (Montagu) Bottle-nosed dolphin.
Regular visitors to the Fort area between 8 and 11 a.m. during
January and February 1955 and 1956 when courtship and mating
seemed to be taking place.
Unidentified species of dolphin have been seen in November and
December and, off Skokholm, in July. A whale spouted near
South Haven, Skokholm, in May, 1947. |
PRESIDENTS
WILLIAM SANDERS
HENRY E. FRIPP
GEORGE FORSTER BURDER>
JOHN BEDDOE ie
Professor WILLIAM RAMSAY .
Rev. THOMAS HINCKS
Professor C. LLOYD MORGAN
Professor ADOLPH LEIPNER
Professor SYDNEY YOUNG
5S. H. SWAYNE
Professor C. LLOYD MORGAN
ARTHUR B. PROWSE ..
Cc. K. RUDGE
JAMES W. WHITE
G. MUNRO SMITH
Miss I. M. ROPER
G. C. GRIFFITHS
ERNEST (later Sir Ernest) H. ‘COOK
H. WOMERSLEY
Professor O. V. DARBISHIRE .
JAMES RAFTER ..
A. L. FLEMMING
ow. LUTCHER ..
F. S. WALLIS
Professor O. V. DARBISHIRE .
G. E. J. McMURTRIE
Professor MACGREGOR SKENE
H. TETLEY
Sir LEWIS L. FERMOR
F. W. EVENS
H. H. DAVIS
Professor W. F. WHITTARD
J. H. SAVORY
R. BASSINDALE
1862—1876
76— 80
80— 83
83— 84
84— 87
87— 90
90-93
93— 94
94— 96
97" 98
99—1900
IQ0I— 03
04— 06
07— 09
10O— 12
13— 16
17— 18
I9— aI |
22— 23
24— 26
27— 29
30
3I— 32
33
34
357 i, No
38— 41
42— 44
45— 47
48— 49
50 ot
aa
54) (59
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i
we Pik rs cn ras}
All matter for inclusion in the next issue of the Proceedings
should be sent to :— :
Dr. Scott SIMPSON,
THe UNIVERSITY,
BrIsTOL, 8
NOT LATER THAN FEB. 28.
Other instructions for authors appear on Contents page.
All Books, Pamphlets, Reports of Proceedings sent by way
of exchange, gift or otherwise, and all correspondence relating
thereto and to purchases of the Society’s publications should be
addressed to :—
Hon. LisrRariAN, BristoL Nat. Soc.,
THe Ciry Museum,
BRIsTOL, 8
Applications for membership of the Society should be addressed
to the Hon Treasurer :—
A. H. Preacu, Esq.,
5 Hansury Roap,
BRIsTOL, 8
Enquiries concerning Field Meetings should be made of the
Hon Secretary, Field Committee :—
Dr. A. F. DEVONSHIRE,
20 EASTOVER CLOSE,
WESTBURY-ON- [RYM
All other communications should be addressed to the Hon.
Secretary :— ah ae |
C.S. Carte, Esq., |
Hinicrort, |
Lone AsHTON,
BRISTOL.
4
The SOCIETY’S LIBRARY in the City Museum ds open!
to members as under :—
Weekdays - - - - 10.0 a.m. to 6.0 p.m.
Sundays - - - - 4.0 p.m. to 6.0 p.m.
VOL. XXIX, PART IV, 1957
CONTENTS
PAGE
Council .. if, he ie os as S. sf A 7.) e330
New Members .. - se at oh A es is Vee i 3ST
Report of Council aH te sts on ne “ts a ae Meee:
Hon. Librarian’s Report a a ae 2 1, ae he ek}
Hon. Treasurer’s Statement of Accounts .. ee ae at le 384.
Report of Botanical Section .. ) 400 75 Thornleigh Road, Horfield, Bristol, 7.
Sigurdsson, Ji. (Boo tae eee Wills Hall, Bristol, 9.
Sums 4h) Taare ok 2 tee 28 Haselbury Grove, Saltford, Nr. Bristol.
Stanton, Miss 1D. Wi... 352 ae 35 Beaufort Road, Bristol, 8.
Stiddard): Miss Ds .\.7) . ane 28 Rodney Road, Backwell, Nr. Bristol.
StowesiViiss iV.) 2)... alee 151 Leinster Avenue, Bristol, 4.
Sweet, Mirs.(G. 0.5...) eee 40 Cornwallis Crescent, Clifton, Bristol, 8.
Thorburn, WVies; IM... 2 4. 8 Whatley Roqd, Bristol, 8.
Tozeland-Jones, Miss S. J. .. 12 Florence Park, Westbury Park, Bristol, 6
Tranter, RWW ea). ees 66 Marshfield Road, Fishponds, Bristol.
ramp; Miss J. Mig. . eee 181 Stoke Lane, Westbury-on-Trym, Bristol
Viowles, 39s(Giiy ec Re 2 York Avenue, Ashley Down, Bristol, 7
Vowles sites. tamara dae: 4. Brymore Close, Wembdon, Bridgwater,
Som.
Vowless Miss Po e8 ee ee 19 Southmead Road, Westbury-on-Trym,
Walters, Miss]. Garam 4 Oakwood Avenue, Henleaze, Bristol
Workman! DPR? Weave 14 The Croft, Trowbridge, Wilts.
Youngs Be terse.) ealema tet 12 Clifford Gardens, Shirehampton, Bristol
AFFILIATED SOCIETIES
Bristol, Clifton and West of England Zoological Society, Bristol, 8
Clifton High School Field Club, Clifton High School, Bristol, 8.
Leyhill Bird Watching Group, Glos.
Redland High School.
333
mE PORT OF COUNGIL
BOD
HE membership of the Society at the end of the year was 584 with 17
Affiliated Societies. There had been an encouraging increase in member-
ship of the Junior Section whose activities were very promising.
At the Annual General Meeting in January the Officers and Members of
Council were duly elected with Mr. R. Bassindale as President for a second year
of office.
The financial position of the Society had caused Council some concern and
this was discussed at the Annual General Meeting when the President announced
that a sub-committee had been appointed to consider ways and means of remedy.
Later in the year, however, at the November meeting of Council, it was decided
that subscriptions should remain unchanged for the present but that the position
should be reviewed later if necessary.
The Annual Dinner, at which there was an attendance of 98 members and
friends, was held in March in the Senior Common Room of the University by
kind permission of its members. The Guest Speaker was Dr. Harrison Matthews,
Director of the Zoological Society of London.
Following an appeal in the April issue of the monthly bulletin, Mr. B. Frost
volunteered to act as Hon. Publicity Secretary. At the meeting of Council in
May his appointment to this office was confirmed. Mr. Frost has a seat on Council
and his work in making the activities of the Society more widely known includes
a weekly article in the Press.
During the year the deaths of Mrs. E. M. E. Bell, Dr. J. V. Blatchford and
Col. W. T. Pares were noted with regret.
C. S. CARLILE, Hon. Secretary.
PON LIBRARIAN’S REPORT
Sy)
borrowed by 55 different members. A number of volumes were bound
and amongst these were some early volumes now rescued from decay. A
few new books were added. Gifts of suitable current or older volumes would be
welcome additions to some already made. We thank the donors in retrospect
and the would-be donors in advance.
[) verso the year 1957 books and periodicals to the number of 245 were
J. H. DAVIE, Hon. Librarian.
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335
REPORT, OF
BOVTANIGAL SECTION
1957
—_———_——_
and showing considerable growth. The winter meetings have been well
attended and the summer outing'’s have been much enjoyed.
At the annual Business Meeting held on January 21, Mr. I. W. Evans was re-
elected President and Mr. R. F. Wills Hon. Secretary and Treasurer. Com-
mittee members elected were: Mr. F. W. Evens, Dr. A. F. Devonshire, Mrs.
G. 8S. Wakefield, Mr. J. A. Eatough and Mr. A. G. H. A. Sargent.
During the year Dr. Devonshire has continued with the scheme for mapping
the British Flora in the Bristol Area and reports the following results at the end of
the year : number of species in square 31/56, 391 ; square 31/57, 584; square
31 /66, 470.
The Wild Plant Table at the Bristol Museum has been much appreciated
and we offer our sincere thanks to Dr. F. S. Wallis and Mr. P. Bird of the museum,
and to Mrs. G. S. Wakefield and Mr. F. W. Evens and to all our members who
have contributed specimens.
On May 11th a whole day Coach trip was taken to Kew Gardens when 41
members were met by Mr. N. Y. Sandwith, who kindly showed us round. On
October 14th a members’ meeting was held when several members gave short
papers on their botanical experiences during the summer, many illustrated by
colour slides. ‘This meeting was so successful that it is hoped to make this an
annual event.
During the year the following Winter Meetings were held :
Jan. 21: Annual Business Meeting. Agricultural Problems in the Gambia,
by R. A. Webb.
Feb. 18: Botanising with a Camera by A. G. H. A. Sargent and R. F. Wills.
Mar. 18: The Family Geraniacee by I. W. Evans.
Oct. 14: Members’ Evening.
Nov. 11: Jamaica, a Botanist’s Impressions by W. T. Stearn.
Dec. 16: Plant ecology in the Gordano Valley by A. J. Willis.
The following field excursions took place during the spring and summer
under the leadership of those named :—
Apr. 13: Leigh Woods: Miss D. Shaw and Mrs. G. S. Wakefield.
May 11: Kew Gardens: R. F. Wills.
May 21: Downs and Portway: Mrs. G. S. Wakefield.
June 11: Left bank of River Avon: I. W. Evans.
June 15: Shipham district: C. H. Cummins.
June 25: Forest Nurseries, Mendip: T. H. Payne.
July 9: Mangotsfield to Warmley: I. W. Evans.
July 13: Ford and Marshfield : A. G. H. A. Sargent.
Aug. 10: Frog-Pit Lane: I. W. Evans.
Aug. 13: Abbot’s Pool and Failand: F. W. Evens.
Sept. 14.: Clevedon: A. F. Devonshire.
Oct. 12: Lord’s Wood: I. W. Evans.
During the summer months five indoor meeting's were held to which mem-
bers brought specimens for identification and afterwards visits were made to the
University greenhouses and the Hiatt Baker Botanical Gardens. It is with deep
regret that we have to report the death of Mrs. E. M. Bell, who was for many
years Hon. Secretary of the Section, she was also in charge of the Wild Plant
Table at the Bristol Museum for quite a long time.
R. F. WILLS, Hon. Secretary.
T= year 1957 ended with the Botanical Section in a very healthy condition
336
REPOR
ENTOMOLOGIC
OF
S
T
AL ECTION
T the 93rd Annual Business Meeting held on Tuesday, January 8, 1957
Mr. Norman A. Watkins was re-elected President and Mr. C. L. Bell
Secretary.
There were five indoor meeting during, the year as follows :—
Feb. 5: Films—The Life Story of the Small Tortoiseshell Butterfly, and the
Milkweed Butterfly. Commentary by Norman A. Watkins.
Mar. 5: Films—Winter Moths, commentary by Mr. Blathwayt; The
Rival World, commentary by Mr. Bassindale. (Both Films
were kindly loaned by Shell.)
Oct. 8: Films—The Emperor Moth ; Ants ; Wood Ants.
Nov. 12: T'alk—The Repair and care of Insects, by R. W. Henderson.
Dec. 10: Annual Exhibition.
On Saturday, June 1, a Field Meeting was held on the Mendips at the top
of Burrington Coombe, and an enjoyable afternoon was spent by the small
number present.
CECIL L. BELL, Hon. Secretary.
337
T the Annual Business Meeting held in the Geology Department of the
A University on 19 January the following officers were elected :—President,
Mr. F. Stenhouse Ross; Vice-President, Dr. F. Coles Phillips ; Hon.
Secretary, Dr. R. J. G. Savage; Field Secretary, Mr. V. D. Dennison ; Com-
mittee, Professor W. F. Whittard (ex-officio), Miss Carlton, Mrs. Perkins, Mrs.
Wakefield, Dr. Curtis, Dr. Simpson, Messrs. Fear, Fry, Leese, ‘Turner and Vernon.
The section held an exhibition meeting in January when twelve members
exhibited specimens, many of them collected on field excursions with the Society.
There was a good attendance and an enthusiastic response from members at this
exhibition. In March a programme of geological films attracted a large attend-
ance and topics included in the film programme were coal, copper, erosion and
oil prospecting. ‘There were three lecture meetings during the year; in February
Prof. E. K. Tratman spoke on “‘ Clare Adventure ”’, in October Dr. S. Simpson on
** New ways of looking at sedimentary rocks ’’, and in November Col. J. Setchell
on ‘“‘ Slate quarrying in Cornwall ”’.
The field programme comprised seven meetings during the summer months.
In April Mr. Fry led a party to Chipping Sodbury to collect minerals and fossils
from the Carboniferous and Rhaetic formations. In May members joined the
Swindon Geological Society in a tour of the Swindon area under the leadership
of Mr. Prismall of Swindon. Mr. Ross led a party in June to the Kellaways Beds
near Chippenham and on two evening meetings in July and August members
visited the Kings Weston Ridge and Flax Bourton. In September Dr. Curtis
led members to Westbury-on-Severn and later in the month the section returned
the hospitality of the Swindon society by showing them some of the geological
exposures in the Bristol area.
On the suggestion of Dr. Loupekine the section commenced excavations in
1955 on the over-grown quarry in the Inferior Oolite at South Main Road,
Dundry. The preliminary preparation of the site was carried out by Mr. T. R.
Fry and Mr. M. E. White, and the leaders supervising the excavations were
Messrs. Fry, White and Ross, with the assistance of numerous helpers. In
September, 1955, the British Association excursion, led by Mr. G. A. Kellaway of
H.M. Geological Survey, visited the site and inspected the work in progress :
great interest was displayed in the large “ gulls ” and in the demonstration of the
planed-off surfaces at the top of the sauzei zone.
Specimens collected from the site were displayed at the Annual Sectional
Exhibition in the City Museum in January, 1957. In the autumn of 1957 the
Sectional president (Mr. F. S. Ross) undertook the work of deepening excavations
to reach lower beds : this work is still in progress.
Members of the section are deeply indebted to the British Association for
financial support. Work continues to make this site permanently accessible,
an only one in the Bristol area where Oolite can be seen, and further reports will
ollow.
R. J. G. SAVAGE, Hon. Secretary.
338
OF
L
a
CA SECTION
7
there having been 13 additions and 2 resignations
during the year. The programme of meetings,
both indoor and outdoor, was well supported ; but the
number of members participating in field-work is still
much less than could be desired. However, it is
pleasant to record that the number of B.T.O. nest
record cards returned has shown a large increase com-
pared with recent years.
Rr) SMe eo At the 33rd Annual General Meeting on January
THE WREN Jf, ALL BIRDS...” 18th, Mr. G. E. Clothier was elected President, Mr.
S. M. Taylor Hon. Secretary, and Miss F. Wareham
Assistant Hon. Secretary. Mr. R. F. Wills was elected Hon. Treasurer, a new
post intended further to spread the burden of secretarial work. Miss D. Cramp-
ton and Mr. P. J. Chadwick were elected to the Committee in place of Miss G. G.
Clement and Mr. P. F. Bird, who retired by seniority. The Editorial Committee
consisting of Messrs. Chadwick, Davis, King, Poulding and Wright, were re-
elected.
The programme of indoor meetings was as follows :
Jan. 17: Annual General Meeting: Mr. R. H. Poulding—Gull Research
in the Severn Estuary.
Feb. 15: Mr. B. Stonehouse—The King Penguin.
Mar. 6: Mr. D. F. Owen—Autumn Migration in N.W. Spain.
Mar. 29: Summer Field-Programme Meeting: short talks, bird-song
records and exhibits of skins.
Sept.27: Mr. H. G. Alexander—Migration in the Himalayas.
Oct. 23: Informal and Exhibition Meeting.
Nov. 6: Dr. W.H. Thorpe, F.R.S.—The Analysis of Bird Song.
Dec. 6: Mr. I. J. Ferguson-Lees—The Coto Dofiana and its Birds.
Attendance at these meetings averaged 78. ‘The Informal and Exhibition
Meeting was held at the Royal Hotel, where about 75 members and visitors in-
spected a wide variety of excellent exhibits prepared by members of the Section,
and were able to meet each other in congenial surroundings.
The following field-walks, at which attendances ranged from 25 to 45, were
held :
May 4: Belmont Hill and Failand: Messrs. G. E. Clothier and M. A.
Wright.
May 15: Leigh Woods: Messrs. P. J. Chadwick and H. W. Neal.
May 23: Little Stoke : Messrs. H. H. Davis and A. C. Leach.
June 4: Saltford: Mr. B. King.
A very successful all-day excursion to Horner and Chetsford Waters, Exmoor,
was held on June 2nd and was attended by 34 members. Among the more
interesting observations were raven, reed-bunting and nesting pied flycatchers.
The eighth annual Field-work Report was published in September.
A number of members have asked for assistance in learning something of the
more technical aspects of ornithology. Several of the exhibits at the Exhibition
Meeting, as well as a large part of the Field-programme meeting, were arranged
with this in mind. We were also glad to make use of a course of lectures on
‘ Bird Behaviour ’ run by the University, and further courses of a similar nature
are being contemplated.
Tt Section’s roll of members now stands at 190,
S. M. TAYLOR, Hon. Secretary.
339
Re OUR iy One
TUNTOR, shCG LION
WoNS
Lecture Theatre, the Members’ Committee was elected as follows :—
Michael Edgell (Chairman), Anita Drummond (Hon. Secretary), Susan
Tapp, Diana Bridges, Nigel Webb and Stephen Moss. ‘The Bristol Waterworks
film ‘‘ Blagdon Trout ”’ was shown.
The following indoor meetings were held :—
Feb. 22: Miss J. Vinnecombe talked about The Farne Islands, showing a
colour film.
Mar. 29: Three films were shown, “‘ Chameleon of the Sea’’, “‘ The Life
of ‘Quick’ the Squirrel”? and “ Flight’’, depicting seed
dispersal.
Sept. 20: Stephen Moss gave an illustrated talk entitled “‘ Caves and their
Inhabitants ”’.
Oct. 25: Mr. Tony Soper talked about being a “‘ television naturalist ”’,
and showed several short films.
Nov. 22: Mr. R. Bassindale on ‘‘ Marine Biology of Bristol Channel ”’.
Dec. 13: Mr. Hugh Boyd on “ The Research Work of the Wild Fowl
rust’
The following Field Meetings took place :—
Jan. 7: A visit to Ubley Hatchery.
Apr. 13: Dundry—Leader Mr. F. Stenhouse Ross.
Apr. 24: A visit to London Natural History Museum, South Kensington.
May 17: An evening walk in Leigh Woods led by Messrs. P. Chadwick
and H. Neal.
May 26: Steep Holm—Leaders Mr. H. Savory and Mrs. R. Millard.
June 8: Goblin Coombe—Leader Mr. B. King.
June 22: Blaise Woods and Kings Weston Down—leader Miss A. Bennett.
July 27: Kellaway Rocks—leader Mr. F. Stenhouse Ross. An ammonite
Cadoceras sublave found by Jennifer Dyer was accepted by
the Museum.
Aug. 31: Pill to the mouth of the Avon—leader Mr. H. Neal.
Sept. 8: Steart—Leaders Mr. and Mrs. R. Wills.
The following meetings took place in the Museum Children’s Room (by
permission of Dr. Wallis).
June 15: Short talks on General Field Work.
Nov. 16: ‘“‘ A Natural History Quiz” arranged by Miss A. Bennett.
The Section Roll shows a substantial increase in strength, it now numbers 111
members. There was an average attendance of 35 at lectures, and field meetings
were also well supported. At both lectures and field meetings the section was
glad to welcome, in quite good numbers, adult members from other sections.
As far as school programmes would permit, junior members participated in
the activities of other sections. This, together with the quality of the season’s
N T the Annual Business Meeting held on January 25 in the Physiology
340 REPORT OF JUNIOR SECTION
programme, shows how satisfactorily the Junior Section is integrating in the
affairs of the Society. Enthusiasm continues unabated, and there is evident
progress in the standard of the work of individual members—as an example,
the lecture given by Stephen Moss, a junior member.
The Advisory Committee continued in office. 2Two new members were
elected—Mr. A. G. Clegg and Mrs. R. F. Wills. The resignations of Mr. Ivor
Evans and Mr. R. V. Culverwell were accepted. The Officers of this Committee
represent the Junior Section on Council.
E. R. MILLARD, Hon. Secretary Advisory Committee.
ANITA DRUMMOND, Hon. Secretary Members’ Committee
341
the Officers and Members of Council were duly elected. At this meeting,
Mr. Bassindale, the President, in his second year of office, lectured on ‘“‘ A
Biologist on the Gold Coast” with special reference to intertidal marine fauna.
A specially interesting feature of the lecture was the description of horizontal zones
of the sea-shore and the life-cycles of the invertebrate animals conditioned to inter-
mittent exposure to sun and air. The two colour-films of great beauty which
were shown with a commentary by the lecturer were most revealing and added
considerably to the value of the meeting.
In February, Mr. McMillan, the Parks Superintendent of the City of Bristol,
lectured on “ Bristol’s Parks and Gardens ’’ when members had the opportunity
of forming an idea of the development and magnitude of this aspect of civic
enterprise.
The new Winter Programme opened with a meeting on October 10, when
Professor Harvey of the University of Exeter gave an illustrated talk on “‘ Dart-
moor ” and dealt with the effect of altitude, weather, soil and drainage on plant
and animal life. Professor Harvey’s aim in his talk was to sum up the findings
of Naturalists on Dartmoor and to indicate general relationships which would
lead to a proper conception of its Natural History.
The second Lecture was given by Miss M. Rogers on October 31. Her subject
was ‘“‘ A Naturalist looks at North America’’. The scope of a single talk had to
be limited but members were able to follow a part of her journey from Cape Cod
across the Continent to the Great Divide and the Colorado River. By means
of numerous colour transparencies a most varied and fascinating account of certain
areas was given. ‘These included Niagara Falls, the Moreton Arboretum near
Chicago, the climatic zones of the Rockies, the Salt Lake City district and the
Colorado Canyon with its visible record of geological change.
On November 14 Mr. P. Carne lectured on ‘“‘ Deer ”? when he outlined the
historical background of these animals from the extinct Irish Elk up to the various
species now living in this country under natural conditions. The lecturer gave a
general picture of the distribution of deer and much detail concerning their habits
and characteristics. Mr. Carne pointed out that research was still needed in the
subject.
An interesting talk on “ Fish and Aquaria’’ was given on December 12
by Mr. V. E. Jones, the Keeper of the Aquarium at the Clifton Zoo. A very
practical and informative approach to the subject was made which appealed
to naturalists of all sections. During his talk, Mr. Jones described the collection
of suitable varieties of fish, the construction and maintenance of aquaria with
fresh and sea-water both at the Clifton Zoo and in the home.
C. S. CARLILE, Hon. Secretary.
Tt 94th Annual General Meeting was held on Thursday, January 24 when
GENERAL FIELD MEETINGS
HE successful innovations of the previous year, a meeting in Wales and an
| all-night meeting were repeated, and for the first time an October meeting
was held. As last year only a brief summary of these meetings is given
here, but a much fuller account is kept in the records of the Field Section.
April 27 : Leaders—Messrs.T. H. Payne and P. J. Room. Litton reservoir,
East Harptree and Minery Woods.
May 18: Leaders—Mr. and Mrs. D. A. C. Cullen. The gardens at Stour-
head and Shearwater lake.
342 GENERAL FIELD MEETINGS
June 1 and 2: Leaders—Mr. and Mrs. R. F. Wells. An all-night meeting
to Dunkery Beacon to hear the dawn chorus. On the way evening bird song
was heard at Shapwick Heath.
June 26: Leaders—Messrs. I. W. Evans and A. F. Devonshire. A cross-
Severn meeting to Kenfig Burrows and Llantwit Major.
July 20: Leader—Mrs. G. 8. Wakefield. The Severn shore at Oldbury,
Oldbury Church, and Thornbury castle.
Aug. 17: Leaders—Miss M. Jago and Mrs. R. Millard. St. Catherine’s
valley and St. Catherine’s Court.
Sept. 7: Leader—Mr. H. G. Hockey. A meeting to the Western Mendips,
visiting Callow Hill, Ambleside Water Gardens, Canada Coombe, and Puxton
Church.
Oct. 19: Leader—Mr. G. W. Garlick. Westonbirt Arboretum and Silk
Wood.
A. F. DEVONSHIRE, Aon. Field Secretary.
343
pers tOL BOTANY IN 1957
By Cecm I. anp N. Y. SANDWITH
N 1957 an exceptionally mild winter with much rain was followed.
by one of the earliest seasons we can remember. Some flowers
on one of the Horse Chestnuts at Kew were open on the last day
of March, and the daffodils here were over long before Easter,
which came late in a dry and sunny April. In May, which was.
variable, a Bee Orchid was in flower by the third week (18th) on
the Berrow dunes. The summer was not avery good one, though
much better than that of the previous year. ‘There was a fine,
hot spell in the last half of June, and many good days in July and
August, but September was a very wet month. Much of November
was unusually dry and cold, but with less sun here than in the
south-east of England.
During the year we lost two well-known botanists. Mrs. E. M. E.
Bell was Honorary Secretary of our Botanical Section from 1940
to 1949, and for many years arranged the weekly exhibits in the
wild flower case at the City Museum. Her British herbarium
includes that of the late H. J. Gibbons, with the exception of many
of his specimens of aliens which were selected, by his wish, for our
own collection. Commander R. D. Graham, of Stawell, whose
adventurous nautical career was described in an obituary in The
Times, was a good friend to many members of the Wild Flower
Society and the Botanical Society of the British Isles, and was him-
self a valuable member, as the leader of peat moor excursions, of
the Botanical Section of the Somerset Archaeological and Natural
History Society.
Mr. P. F. Hunt continues to assemble materials for a flora of the
rural district of Frome. This year his other work has kept him out-
side the area, but two friends, Mrs. N. Wycherley and Miss E.
Overend, have been most active on his behalf, and Mrs. Wycherley
has made large collections of specimens which have been identified
at the British Museum Herbarium. ‘These specimens have been
listed for the Distribution Maps Scheme, and the authorities at
Cambridge have kindly allowed us to abstract records.
Our notes this time include records of a number of naturalized
trees and shrubs, as well as the usual list of casual adventives.
This is not much to our liking, but is now common practice, and
seems inevitable provided that it is kept within reasonable limits.
344 CECIL I. AND N. Y. SANDWITH
The names of our principal contributors are abbreviated as follows:
D.M.S., Dr. D. MunroSmith N.W., Mrs. N. Wycherley.
G.W.G., G. W. Garlick P.J.M.N., P.J.M. Nethercott
I.W.E., I. W. Evans R.G.B.R., Commander
jJ-P.M.B., J. P. M. Brenan R. G. B. Roe
Helleborus viridis L. ‘Tower House Wood, Wraxall, S., 1921, etc.,
C.LS. and N.Y.S. Laneside, Nettlebridge, S., F. M. Pilking-
ton. Vallis Vale, S., V.W.
Aconitum anglicum Stapf. By a stream bordering a meadow at Kil-
mersdon, S., &.G.B.R. For the original account of this
species see the Botanical Magazine, t. 9088 (1926). Our
colonies, at any rate those near Frome, Mells and Edford, which
have been considered native, are certainly to be referred here.
The status and rank of this “‘ taxon’, however, cannot be
regarded as in any way settled.
Mahonia Aquifolium (Pursh) Nutt. Woodland above Bridge Valley
Road, Clifton, G., G.W.G.
Nasturtium microphyllum (Boenn.) Reichb. Marsh in valley between
St. Catherine and Ashwicke Park Hall, G., 7.P.M.B.
Cardamine pratensis L. The flore pleno form was found near Crom-
hall, G., by Miss M. Harris.
Sinapis alba L. em. Alef. Cornfield and lane, Cameley, S., R.G.B.R.
Saponaria officinalis L. Roadside, Kelston, 8., Mrs. M. H. Simpson.
Stellaria Holostea L. var. apetala Rostr. ex Asch. et Gr. Roadside
bank below Damery Bridge, G., G.W.G.
S. palustris Retz. In rough marshy ground known as “‘ The Meads”’,
near Duckhole, north of Thornbury, G., 1953 and subsequently,
Dr. D. C. Prowse. A very interesting addition to the Glos.
side of the area and to District 5 of Fl. Glos.
Minuartia tenuifolia (L.) Hiern. On railway sidings at Hapsford,
Vallis Vale, S., EL. Milne-Redhead. Embankment of disused
quarry railway, Chilcompton, S., R.G.B.R.
Sagina nodosa L. Side of track in an open part of Westridge Wood,
Wotton-under-Edge, G., D.M.S.
Montia fontana L. ssp. chondrosperma (Fenzl) Walters. Bury Hill,
Moorend, G., D.M.S., verified by Dr. S. M. Walters.
M. fontana L. ssp. intermedia (Beeby) Walters. Marshy spot on
Rodway Hill, Mangotsfield, G., G.W.G. and N.Y.S., verified
by Dr. Walters.
BRISTOL BOTANY IN 1957 345
Geranium phaeum L. Laverton Common, S., V.W.
G. Robertianum L. ‘The form with white flowers occurs in Canynge
Road, Clifton, G., C.Z.S.; and in a lane at Stoke Bishop, G.,
Mrs. W. Cummins.
Impatiens glandulifera Royle. Between Frome and Great Elm, S.,
N.W. and Miss E. Overend.
Acer platanoides L. A small tree of the Norway Maple is established
by the tow-path below Leigh Woods, S., .W.E. ‘This species
is commonly planted in our district.
Trifolium squamosum L. In small quantity on waste ground at
Hambrook, G., D.M.S. A strange habitat for this maritime
plant.
Lathyrus sylvestris L. Hedge below Limeridge Wood, Tickenham,
S920, @.J.S. and V.YS.
Prunus Mahaleb L. A small tree is established on the slope of the
Downs opposite the Zoological Gardens, Clifton, G., NV.Y.S.
It is the forma pendula Dippel, which is well-known in gardens.
This species, the ‘‘ Bois de Sainte Lucie’’ of France, is not
found in the British Plant List, but a tree of the typical form
was found naturalized in a wood between Tregony and Tresil-
lian, E. Cornwall, by us in April, 1936 (specimen in Herb. Kew).
Potentilla erecta (L.) Hampe x reptans L. Coalpit Heath viaduct,
G., D.M.S.
Azrimonia Eupatoria L. A curious sport was found above Wotton-
under-Edge, G., by Mrs. W. Cummins. In this plant the flowers,
which were borne on elongated and steeply ascending pedicels,
were more or less “‘ double ’’, with 9-10 petals and very few
tamens, some of the latter being petaloid. A somewhat
Smilar sport of Agrimony was collected a few miles away, in
Woodchester Park, in June, 1941, by Mr. H. K. Airy Shaw,
sec his specimen in the Kew Herbarium.
Sorbus lajfolia (Lam.) Pers. P.7.M.N. has noted a well-grown tree
on ach side of the Avon Gorge, G. and S., which Dr. E. F.
Warwe has identified as “‘ latifolia of gardens.”
Crataegu xyacathoides Thuill. Alderley, G., E. P. Bury.
Cotoneaster horizontal: Decaisne. One small shrub established on
Cheddar Cliffs, S., p. F.M.N.
B
346 CECIL I. AND N. Y. SANDWITH
C. Stmonsit Baker. In two spots in Leigh Woods, S., P.7.M.N.,
and compare Mr. White’s comment (Flora, p. 303) on Mr. F.
Samson’s bush recorded from Nightingale Valley as C.
microphylla Wallich.
Tellima grandiflora (Pursh) Dougl. ex Lindl. Under Beech trees in
private woods near Henleaze Road, G., Miss A. Furber; and
on a bank at Upton Cheyney, G., Miss Britton. This North
American herb (Saxifragaceae), with greenish, pectinately
fringed petals, is frequently found planted or semi-wild.
Epilobium hirsutum L. X parviflorum Schreb. Commonmead Lane,
Old Sodbury, G., G.W.G., passed by G. M. Ash.
E. adnatum Griseb. x parviflorum Schreb. Pond, Mead Ridings,
Chipping Sodbury, G., G.W.G., also passed by Mr. Ash.
Petroselinum segetum (L.) Koch. Sheperdine, G., D.M.S.
Symphoricarpos rivularis Suksd. Established in Leigh Woods, S.,
Po MAN.
Valerianella carinata Lois. On limestone rocks, Wadbury Valley,
between Mells and Great Elm, S., V.W.
Filago minima (Sm.) Pers. Gravelly ground, Bury Hill, Moorend,
G., D.M.S.
Petasites fragrans (Vill.) Presl. Field at Nettlebridge, S., F. MM.
Pilkington.
Doronicum Pardalianches L. Wadbury Valley, S., one clump, V.W.
Senecio squalidus L. Kilmersdon and Radstock, S., R.G.B.R.
Cirsium eriophorum (L.) Scop. Limestone grassland in valley betveen
St. Catherine and Ashwicke Park Hall, G., 7.P.M.B. Waste
ground by the towpath near Ashton Bridge, Bristol, $., (.W.G.
Hieracium glevense (Pugsl.) Sell et C. West. Whitewell 5ottom,
Kilcot, G., G.W.G., confirmed by Sell and West.
H. umbellatum L. Michael Wood, Damery, G., G.W.G., onfirmed
by Sell and West. |
|
Vaccinium Oxycoccos L. Last June we were pleased # find that the
patch on Blackdown, S., had survived f~S and var-time
activities on the summit of Mendip. Pt we could yo0t see
Andromeda. |
|
\
\
BRISTOL BOTANY IN 1957 347
Symphytum x upplandicum Nym. Symonds Hall Hill, Wotton-under-
Edge, G., G.W.G. Roadside south of Ashwicke Hall, Marsh-
field, G., G.W.G. Specimens from both localities determined
by A. E. Wade.
Atropa Belladonna L. One small plant on Durdham Down, opposite
Pembroke Road, Clifton, G., 7. Newton, comm. G.W.G. One
plant in Court Lane, Bitton, G., Mrs. M. H. Simpson.
Fyoscyamus mger L. Ploughed field at Nibley, near Yate, G.,
G.W.G. It has also appeared on the blitzed area near Wine
Street, Bristol, G., [.W.E.
Linaria repens (L.) Mill. By disused railway track, Camerton, S.,
RIG.BIR.
L. xX sepium Allm. (L. repens xX vulgaris). Railway banks,
Ashley Hill, G., .W.E.
L. purpurea (L.) Mill. Old quarries, Whatley Bottom, S., N.W.
Veronica filiformis Sm. In Proc. Bot. Soc. Brit. Is., vol. 2, pp. 197-217
(1957), Messrs. E. B. Bangerter and D. H. Kent list all the known
British records of this rapidly spreading garden escape. ‘There
are several records from both sides of our area which have not
appeared in these annual notes, and to these we may add:
Huntingford Mill, Charfield, G., G.W.G., and Wadbury
Valley, Frome, S., W.W.
Orobanche maritima Pugsl. On Daucus Caroia L., on a slope at the
root of Brean Down, S., south side, /.W.E., confirmed by
R. A. Graham. This is a microspecies with very obscure
characters, doubtfully distinguishable from O. minor.
Mentha gentilis L. var. gracilis (Sole) Fraser. Waste ground at
Fishponds ; and at Rodford, Westerleigh, G., D.M.S., det.
R. A. Graham.
Thytus pulegioides L. Compton Dando, S., 1956, I.W.E.
Stachy. sylvatica L. and S. palustris L. There are no published local
reords of the white-flowered forms of these species. We have
spcimens of both in our herbarium: of S. sylvatica, from a
hece at Long Ashton, 8., in 1919; and of S. palustris, from
the »eat moor near Ashcott Station, S., in 1915. White S.
sylodicg is surely a very uncommon albino.
Polygonum ™- Schrank. Drove on Glastonbury Heath, S., A.D.
and O.M. “riljam,
Euphovt@ virgata ) dst. et Kit. Railway embankment, Winter-
4ourne, G., D.M.s
348 CECIL I. AND N. Y. SANDWITH
Mercurialis annua L. Garden weed, Glastonbury, S., F. M. Day.
Juglans regia L. A young tree on Cheddar Cliffs, S., P.F.M.N.
Betula pubescens Ehrh. Spoil-heap at Greyfield, Clutton, S.,
R.G.B.R.
Populus trichocarpa ‘Torr. et Gray ex Hook. ‘The trees in Alderley
Wood and Dyrham Wood, G., previously reported as P.
balsamifera L. in “‘ Bristol Botany ”’ in 1953 and 1954, must be
referred to this species, which has more sharply angled twigs.
Material from Dyrham Wocd was submitted to Mr. P. G.
Beak, of the Commonwealth Forestry Bureau, Oxford, who
tells us that, in his experience, British planted trees of P.
trichocarpa, apart from those of special collections, can be dis-
tinguished from P. balsamifera by the male catkins.
Salix repens L., ssp. repens. Michael Wood, Damery, G., G.W.G.
Ceratophyllum demersum L. Oldford, north of Frome, S., V.W.
Orchis mascula L. ‘The form with pure white flowers was found in
the Lower Woods, east of Wickwar, G., by &. P. Bury.
O. ericetorum (Linton) Marshall. Between Marshfield and Cold
Ashton, G., D.M.S. Lower slopes of Knowle Hill, south of
Chew Magna, S., Dr. A. F. Devonshire. Plentiful, as surely
noted by many observers, in the bogs of Blackdown on Mendip,
S. There is also a specimen at Kew from near Cheddar Head
Farm, collected in 1934 by Dr. 7. Hutchinson and Messrs. F.
Ballard and C’. E. Hubbard.
Epipactis leptochila (Godfery) Godfery. Cheddar Gorge, S., 01
the north side, in Ash and Sorbus scrub, two plants growing wih
E. Helleborine, Dr. J. T. H. Knight, confirmed by V. S. Sumner-
hayes. This is the first certain record from the Somersetside
of the district, cf. “‘ Bristol Botany in 1948.” /
Neottia nidus-avis L. Hardington Copse, north of Mells, S., WW.
Convallaria majalis L. WHardington Copse, S., V.W.
Funcus tenuis Willd. Michael Wood, Damery, G., D.M.S./
Sparganium neglectum Beeby. Streams and ditches by the&. Frome
at Oldford, S., C.l.S. and N.Y.S.
Acorus Calamus L. Miss E. Overeni,
BRISTOL BOTANY IN 1957 349
Potamogeton Berchtoldi Fieb. Stream by the R. Frome at Oldford,
S., CLS. and NV.Y.S., confirmed by Mr. 7. E. Dandy.
Scirpus maritimus L. var. macrostachys Willd. Dyke in the flats below
Portbury, S., 1923 and subsequently, C.l.S. and N.Y.S. This
form, with conspicuously long spikes, was recorded, lapsu
calami, as var. monostachys Meyer, in B.E.C. (1930 Rep.),
vol. 1x, p. 375.
S. sylvaticus L. Ditch near Lyde Green, G., D.M.S.
Carex strigosa Huds. By wooded stream in valley between St.
Catherine and Ashwicke Park Hall, G., 7.P.M.B.
C’. extensa Good. Muddy salt-marsh, Aust, G., 1955, Miss A. R.
Gibbs. An excellent second locality for the Glos. side of the area.
C. pallescens L. Leap Bridge, Downend, G., D.M.S., det. G.W.G.
C. paniculata L. Marsh by stream in valley between St. Catherine
and Ashwicke Park Hall, G., 7.P.M.B. New to the Glos.
side of the area and to District 5 of Fl. Glos.
C. disticha Huds. Swampy ground, Cromhall, G., D.M.S.
Calamagrostis Epigetos (L.) Roth. Limeridge Wood, Tickenham,
S., 1923, C./.S. and N.Y.S.
Deschampsia cespitosa (L.) Beauv. var. parviflora (Thuill.) Coss. et
Germ. ‘This variety, with narrow leaves and small spikelets,
_ 1s probably common, especially in woods on stiff soils. There
seem to be no published records, but we have it from woodland
on Combe Down, Bath, S., 1923, and from Horridge Wood,
Nettlebridge, S., last August.
Glyceria declinata Bréb. Marshy spot in the valley between Edford
and Nettlebridge, S., C./.S. and N.Y.S.
G. X pedicellata'Towns. By stream in valley between St. Catherine
and Ashwicke Park Hall, G., 7.P.M.B., det. C. FE. Hubbard.
Bromus lepidus Holmb. Edge of wheat-field between Nunney and
Collie Corner, S., E. Milne-Redhead.
Dryopteris Borreri Newm. Valley beteen St. Catherine and Ash-
wicke Park Hall, G., 7.P.M.B., det. P. Taylor. Dyrham Wood
and Westridge Wood, Wotton-under-Edge, G., G.W.G. On
rocks in Nightingale Valley, Leigh Woods ; and in Cheddar
Wood, S., G.W.G. Mr. Garlick’s specimens, all collected in
localities with oolitic or carboniferous limestone substrata,
were passed by Mr. A. H. G. Alston.
350 CECIL I. AND N. Y. SANDWITH
D. spinulosa (Miill.) Watt. Michael Wood, Damery, G. D.M.S.,
det. A.H.G. Alston.
Polystichum setiferum (Forsk.) Woynar. Lane along the top of Aust
Clifts, (G.,'G..G.
Chara vulgaris L. var. refracta Kiitz. Rhine on Weston-in-Gordano
moor, 1914; Walton-in-Gordano, 1935 ; and on Mark Moor,
1915, S., C.L.S., all determined by Mr. G. O. Allen. A small,
neat plant with relatively short, often refracted branchlets
with short terminal segments, not previously reported from
the area.
ALIENS. JLunaria annua L. A specimen of the white-flowered
form (var. alba Hort.) of “‘ Honesty ”’ was sent from the edge ofa
wood on Lansdown, S., by B. L. Carpenter.
Spergula arvensis L. var. sativa (Boenn.) Mert. et Koch. Avon-
mouth Dock, G., 1930 and 1957, C.1.S. and V.YS.
Althea hirsuta L. Quarry edge, Chipping Sodbury, G., G.W.G.
Trifolium echinatum Bieb. Wapping Wharf, Bristol Harbour,
GG.) 19030, 0 VE.
Vicia lutea L. Wapping Wharf, G., 1941, [.W.E.
Lathyrus Cicera L. Refuse-tip, Hanham, G., 1948-1949, [.W.E.
Rubbish-tip, St. Anne’s, 8., 1913, J.W.#., incorrectly recorded
as L. sativus in the Adventive Flora of the Port of Bristol.
Phuopsis stylosa (Trin.) Benth. et Hook. fil. Waste ground at the
lime-kilns near Corston, 8., Miss Joan Day, who writes that the
quarry here was used. for dumping debris after the Bath blitz.
P. stylosa is a well-known rock-garden plant, native of N.W.
Persia and the Caucasus, see N. Polunin in B.#.C. 1939-
1940 Rep., vol. xii, pp. 356-8 (1942). It has been placed in
both Asperula and Crucianella.
Madia sativa Mol. ssp. capitata (Nutt.) Piper. Ashton Gate tip,
S., 1948, 1 W.E.
Galinsoga ciliata (Raf.) Blake. Wayside, Coalpit Heath, G., D.M.S.
Tagetes minuta L. Avonmouth Dock, G., C.JS. and N.Y.S.
Anthemis tinctoria L. Quarry, Tytherington, G., D.M.S.
Omphalodes verna Moench, Pulmonaria officinalis L. and Pentaglottis
sempervirens (L.) Tausch were gathered on waste ground at
Tedbury Common, near Great Elm, S., by V.W.
BRISTOL BOTANY IN 1957 351
Cuscuta campestris Yuncker. On China Aster (Callistephus chinensis)
in a garden off Horfield Avenue, Bristol, G., W. Solley, comm.
P. F, Bird. A native of U.S.A., now frequently found in this
country, introduced with garden seed. Previous collections
of alien Cuscute at Bristol, recorded in the Adventive Flora
under the names C’. suaveolens (Baptist Mills, 1927) and C.
Tinet ssp. Cesatiana (Kingswood, 1932) have been referred to C.
campestris by Mr. B. Verdcourt, who specialises in the genus.
We suggest that other recorders of C. Cesatiana should re-
examine their specimens: (cf. Proc. B.S.BJ., vol. 1, p. 39,
1954), using Prof. Yuncker’s revision of the genus. The pale
orange-coloured stems of C’. campestris are very striking when
fresh.
Datura Stramonum L. ‘‘ Thorn Apple ”’ is appearing in many places.
The Chipping Sodbury Gazette for Sept. 7th and 2Ist reported
Gloucestershire records from Alveston, Wotton-under-Edge
and Halmore, near Berkeley. It occurs at Avonmouth, G.,
both in the Dock and in an allotment (H.C. Rowley). Garden
at Keynsham, S., R. F. Wills. Garden at Brent Knoll, S.,
FH. Solomon.
D. Stramonum L. var. Tatula (L.) Torrey, the variety with deep
purple stems and leaf-nerves, and bluish lilac flowers, was
found by us at Avonmouth Dock, G., and is new to the
Adventive Flora. It also appeared in a garden at Siston, G.,
Aes. jones,.comm, P, Ff -Bird.
D. ferox L. Avonmouth Dock, G., C.J.S. and N.Y.S. New to the
Adventive Flora. ‘This is a very distinct species, with greyish-
green leaves, small yellowish flowers, and fruit with fewer
and very stout spines. It is a native of the Far East.
Nicandra physaloides Gaertn. Several plants on waste ground at
Saltford, S., Miss Norma Longman. ‘This handsome species,
native of Peru, has recently acquired a rather dubious reputa-
tion under the name “‘ Shoo-fly Plant ’’, and seeds are offered
for sale in at least one catalogue, the author of which does not
guarantee the plant’s efficacy. We may expect further
records.
Phlomis viscosa Poir., a native of Asia Minor, has been well estab-
lished for a number of years on a hedgebank near Mells,
S., V.W., det. R. D. Meikle at Kew.
Amaranthus caudatus L. Previously unreported, either in the
Adventive Flora or these annual notes, but was collected on
352 CECIL I. AND N. Y. SANDWITH
several occasions at the Ashton Gate tip, S., 1935-1940, by
ILW.E., J.P.M.B. and C.I.S.; and at Fishponds, G., 1936, by
CLS.
A. retroflexus L. ‘Tip, Widdin Hill, Horton, G., G.W.G.
Allium Moly L. ‘This golden-flowered species, native of Southern
Europe and well-known in gardens, was reported from waste
ground at Corston, S., by Miss Foan Day.
A. Schoenoprasum L. Side of a narrow lane leading from Burnt
House, Odd Down, to Combe Hay, S., Miss S. F. Lloyd. A
long way from habitations, but “‘ Chives’ might well have
grown in the garden of a cottage long since demolished.
Arum italicum Mill. Grassy roadside outside a property in Leigh
Woods, S., 7. Titchen and I.W.E. The usual garden form of
the species, with yellow-veined leaves.
Panicum miliaceum L. and Setaria ttalica (L.) Beauv. ‘Tip, Widdin
Hill, Horton, the former also in gardens at Yate, G., G.W.G.
Eleusine Gaertn. Our two gatherings of this genus at Avonmouth,
G., reported in the Adventive Flora as E. indica Gaertn., have
been examined by Mr. C. E. Hubbard who refers the 1926
collection to the new species, E. africana Kennedy-O’Byrne,
and the 1930 specimens to E. coracana (L.) Gaertn. Mr. P.
Taylor tells us that in tropical East Africa the former is used
for basket-making, the latter as a cereal and in the manufacture
of beer.
Bromus madritensis L. On the railway lines at Sandford quarry,
S., .W.E. and G.W.G.
We congratulate Mr. J. D. Grose on his excellent “ Flora of
Wiltshire ’’, which contains such interesting innovations as distribu-
tion maps, properly defined frequency terms, and statistical analyses
of the habitats of closely allied species, while maintaining most of
the attractive features of the traditional county flora. ‘This book,
of course, is of particular importance for Bristol botanists.
353:
Pero rOL BIRD REPORT
1957
COMPILED BY THE EDITORIAL COMMITTEE OF THE
B.N.S. ORNITHOLOGICAL SECTION
B. K. BROOKE H. H. Davis
P. J. GHADWICK R. H. Pou.pine
M. A. WRIGHT
HIS report, the twenty-second of the series, contains records
_ for 1957 and is the outcome of observations by thirty-eight
members and various non-members. Only the more important
events have been included, but it may again be pointed out that all
unpublished material will be retained for future reference.
Interesting records from the Severn Estuary are of three Lesser
White-fronts at the New Grounds, January-March, and at the same
place, fifteen Little Stints in February and at least 400 Pintail
in late December. Spotted Redshank, by no means common on
the river, were reported from the New Grounds, July-August, and
Severn Beach in September, and Black-tailed Godwits reached the
unusually high figures of 40 at the New Grounds and 75 at Sheper-
dine—both counts in September. Following severe gales in
January-February a “ wreck”’ of Kittiwakes affected many parts
of the Estuary (and some areas inland)—more than 100 birds
being recovered, while other coastal recoveries included Razor-
bills at Sand Bay, and Clevedon in March and August respectively ;
a Manx Shearwater at Sand Bay in April ; a Fulmar at Clevedon
in September, and a Glaucous Gull at the same place in Decem-
ber. Leach’s Petrels were seen at Purton and Severn Beach in
September, and in the same month a juvenile Sabine’s Gull was
identified at Weston-super-Mare.
Among wildfowl observations from the reservoirs are those of
Bewick’s Swans at Blagdon in January and December, and un-
usual numbers of Gadwall at Chew Valley and a Long-tailed Duck
at Cheddar from October to early December. Wintering Spotted
Redshank were reported from Blagdon and Chew Valley; a
Curlew Sandpiper and one or more Wood Sandpipers were at
Chew Valley, August-September, and a Grey Phalarope was seen
at the same place in November. A Hen Harrier visited Chew
Valley in January ; an exceptionally large passage of Black Terns
was noted at Chew Valley and Cheddar in the third week of
354 BRISTOL BIRD REPORT
September ; and Little Gulls occurred at Cheddar in August and
Chew Valley in December.
Other important records include those of a Kite at Tockington in
March ; and a very large count of Golden Plover at Marksbury
in December ; while among passerine observations mention may be
made of Crossbills at Ubley, January-February, and Abbots Leigh
in April, and Snow Buntings at Cheddar reservoir and in the
Weston-super-Mare area in November-December. Waxings were
reported from several localities during the last six weeks of the year.
_ Breeding records of special interest are of the rearing of young
by at least twenty-three pairs of Tufted Duck at Chew Valley, and
the successful nesting of Shelduck at the same reservoir ; the rear-
ing of young by Kestrels in the tower of St. Stephens in the City ;
and the successful nesting of a pair of Herring Gulls at Aust Cliff.
Unless otherwise stated the records below refer only to 1957, and
for the most part are the result of contributions by the following mem-
bers: R. Angles, A. E. Billett, H. J. Boyd, B. K. Brooke, G. C. Buxton,
Mrs. S. I. Buxton, P. J. Chadwick, D. R. J. Chaffe, S$. E. Chapman,
Miss G. G. Clement, G. E. Clothier, H. H. Davis, Miss P. Farmer,
Miss C. D. G. Graham, D. R. Hamblett, W. A. Holmes, B. King,
A. C. Leach, T. D. H. Merrie, H. W. Neal, P. J...Vi. Nethercott, Mrs:
B. C. Palmer, Miss E. M. Palmer, T. H. Payne, R. A. Pitman, R. H.
Poulding, J. A. Pryce, J. Reynolds, W. L. Roseveare, P. Scott,
T. B. Silcocks, G. Sweet, Miss S. Sweet, T. P. Walsh, N. Webb,
Mrs. D. A. Wills, R. F. Wills and M. A. Wright. Non-member —
coniributors are: H. G. Alexander, J. V. Beer, E. G. Braim, Dr.
N. J. Brown, R. J. Buxton, Miss M. Collins, M. Davy, A. G. Dixon,
Miss M. Flower, A. C. Gambier, B. E. Gambier, Miss P. Hitchen,
D. A. Holmes, S. T. Johnstone, J. Kenny, R. J. Lewis, GC. S. Louch,
J. A. McGeoch, S. G.. Madge; P. J. Olney, M. W.) Piekerme,” R,
Pritty, A. Thomas, P. Tibbs, J. A. F. Wilkins, Rev. J. S. Wright
and G. H. E. Young. Observations are followed by the appro-
priate initials throughout. The abbreviations Res. Stn. and Jnr.
Sect. refer, respectively, to the Steep Holm Trust Gull Research
Station and the B.N.S. Junior Section.
The area covered is that part of Gloucestershire (G.) lying east of
the Severn and south of a line from the New Grounds to the county
boundary at Tetbury, and Somerset (S.) north of the R. Axe and
a line from Wells to the county boundary near Frome. For the
purpose of this report the area extends westward into the Channel
and Estuary to include the promontory of Brean Down and the
islands of Steep Holm and the Denny (cf. Sketch Map, Proc. B.N.S.,
1947, Pp. 225).
a
BRISTOL BIRD REPORT 355
Great NORTHERN DIVER Gavia immer
S. Single birds, Blagdon res., various dates, Jan. 3-Mar. 31
(ee jue sect. ci al.) ; Cheddar res., Feb. 24-Apr. 14 (B.K.B.,
Bike yA McG.) ; and Chew Valley res., Nov. 17 (B.K.).
RED-THROATED DIVER Gavia stellata
S. One, Cheddar res., Feb. 19 (W.L.R.) and first-year bird,
same place, Nov. 23-Dec. 22 (B.K., J.A.McG.).
GREAT CRESTED GREBE Podiceps cristatus
S. Highest counts, Cheddar res. : twenty, Jan. 20 (J.A.McG.),
and 22, Dec. 1 (B.K.). Freshly dead, first-winter female with
severe head injuries, same place, Nov. 24, was probably killed by
Great Black-backed Gull in vicinity (J.A.McG.). Thirty-four
ads., Chew Valley res., July 21; later, Aug. 18, ads. with five
separate broods seen (B.K.). Four pairs with young, Blagdon res.,
mug 17 (h.}.C.). Single bird off Sand Point, Nov. 16 (T.B.S.).
SLAVONIAN GREBE Podiceps auritus
S. One, Cheddar res., several dates, Oct. 13 to end of Dec.
CyP-AsMcG., GS. ei al.).
BLACK-NECKED GREBE Podiceps nigricollis
S. First-winter bird, Cheddar res., Sept. 29-Oct. 13 (B.K.,
hem McG., GS):
LittLE GREBE Podiceps ruficollis
S. At least nine separate broods with ads., Chew Valley res.,
Aug. 18 (B.K.) ; single pair with three young, Blagdon res., Aug.
24, and an ad. with three young, Chew Magna res., Aug. 5 (P.J.C.).
Pair with two young, Newton Park, Bath, June 6 (M.C., B.K.).
maui in Axe Estuary, Uphill, Aug. 21 (R.A.).
LeEaAcH’s PETREL Oceanodroma leucorrhoa
G., One in flight over Estuary, Purton, Sept. 14 (D.R.H.,
T.P.W.) and another on 15th flying along tide-line, Severn Beach
(i F1.D.).
MANX SHEARWATER Procellaria puffinus
S. One with oil on breast and flanks, dead on shore, Sand Bay,
exon 7 (RWA.).
356 BRISTOL BIRD REPORT
FuLtMAR) Fulmarus glacialis
S. Oiled bird found dead, Clevedon, Sept. 14 (D.A.W.).
GANNETT Sula bassana
S. Single ads. found dead, Cheddar res., Aug. 26 (N.W.), and
Sand Bay, Dec. 24 (M.A.W.).
CoRMORANT Phalacrocorax carbo
S. Numerous reservoir records include: five, Chew Valley,
Jan. 6 (B.K.) ; ten, Cheddar,.Mar. 3 (J-A;McG,)iee. a) (Bis):
single birds, Barrow Gurney, Nov. 22, 24 (G.E.C., W.A.H.) ;
and two, Blagdon, Dec. 26 (P.J.C.).
SHAG Pahalacrocorax aristotelis
G. Juvenile found dead, Berkeley, Aug. 16, had been ringed in
June by the Lundy Bird Observatory (Wildfowl Trust).
S. Single immatures, Cheddar res., Mar. 17 (J.A.McG.),
Apr: 13 (B.K., N.W.) and Sept. 22, 29 (J.A.MeG.}.
HERON’ Ardea cinerea
S. Total of 55 occupied nests reported : 32, Brockley Combe,
May 4 (B.K., N.W.) ; 22, Uphill Grange, May 8 (W.L.R.) and
one in larch, Newton Park, Newton St. Loe, Apr. 15 (B.K.).
Again no information from Warleigh Wood, nr. Bath and Orchard-
leigh, nr. Frome.
MALLARD Anas platyrhynchos
G. Highest counts at the New Grounds (Estuary and W.T.
enclosures) : 530, Jan. 24; 700, Sept: 25; 500, Wenurs ; (and
1,100, Dec. 22 (H.J.B.). 1,200 on decoy pool, same place, in early
morning of Dec. 24 (P.S.). Record total of 1,552 ringed in the
decoy in period Aug.-Dec. (H.J.B.). Combined count of 105,
Eastville Park and Duchess’ Pond, Stapleton, Jan. 27 (J.A.P.).
S. Counts of 100-180 at frequent intervals throughout year
from coastal areas—Yeo Estuary, Sand Bay and Weston Bay (R.A.,
W.L.R., T.B.S.). Peak totals, Blagdon res., reported in period
July-Sept., with numbers varying from 325 to 610 (P.J.C., B.K.,
M.A.W. e al.), while max. returns from Chew Valley are of 585,
May 29 600, Aug. 4 and 580 on 25th (G.C.B., S.I.B., B.K. e¢ al.).
Highest totals, Cheddar res.: 127, Aug. 18, and 180, Dec. 8
(J.A.McG.) and Barrow Gurney resrs.: 174, Dec. 27 (G.E.C.) and
250 on gist (A.C.L.). Breeding data from Chew Valley suggests
BRISTOL BIRD REPORT 357
that a minimum of 40 females brought young to the water and that
at least 245 ducklings were reared to flying stage. Only six broods
seen, Blagdon, where breeding success apparently much lower
(H.J.B., B.K.).
"TEAL Anas crecca
S. Noteworthy coastal counts are of 160, Yeo Estuary, Jan. 12 ;
212, same place, Dec. 28 (T.B.S.) ; and 100, Sand Bay, Nov. 17
(R.A.). The only large counts from the reservoirs are of 550,
Blagdon, Jan. 23 (G.C.B., $.1.B.) and Chew Valley : 535, Mar. 2
(B.K.) and 460, Nov. 24 (G.C.B., S.I.B.). An adult ringed, Naar-
dermeer, Holland, 16/10/56, recovered; Blagdon res., 31/1/57
CRUEL P:).
GARGANEY Anas querquedula
G. Single female in W.T. enclosures, New Grounds, early
Mar.-early Apr., and a male, Apr. 4-8 (S.T.J., P.S.).. A female in
same enclosures for most of Aug. (S.T.J.). Male on Estuary,
New Grounds, July 15 (P.J.O.).
S. ‘Two or three, Chew Valley res., various dates, mid.-Apr. to
third week of July (E.G.B., P.J.C., R.J.L. e¢ al.).. Four pairs, same
reservoir, Apr. 20 (B.K.). A female, Chew Valley, as late as
Oct. 27—seen by B.K., who has supplied full details.
GADWALL Anas strepera
S. Reported from the reservoirs, Blagdon and Chew Valley,
at all seasons and in numbers exceeding those of any previous year.
Records from Blagdon are of two, Jan. 13 (R.J.L.) and Nov. 11
VG GC, ); mne, Dec. 12 (G.C.B., S.1.B.) and six on 26th (P.J.C.).
Whew Valley returns are of one, Jan. 13 (B.K., R.J.L.) ; up to
four on various occasions, Apr.—June (E.G.B., P.T., N.W. ef al.) ;
eich Augsvos (P.J.C., M.A.W.) ; 12, Sept. 22 (H.H.D., M.A.W.) ;
7a Ocr. 22-and 27 (P.J.C., B.K.); 16, Nov. 17, and. 29, Dec. 6
WIcEOoN Anas penelope
G. New Grounds: max. figures from the Estuary of 1,200,
Ham. 24; 1,060, ‘Feb. 1 (H.J.B.) ;. 1,200, Nov. 16 (B.K.) 5; and
1,600, Dec. 22 (H.J.B.). Count of 203 on the river, Oldbury-on-
pevern, Dec. 1 (T.D.H.M.).
S. Many fewer, Blagdon res., than in recent years ; highest
count, 200, Feb. 27 (G.C.B., S.I.B.). Large numbers, Chew
358 BRISTOL BIRD REPORT
Valley, Jan.-early Mar. and Dec. (but no repetition of the ex-
ceptional totals in 1956), with max. counts of 1,200, Jan. 6 (B.K.) ;
1,470, Jan. 27 (G.C.B., 8.1.B.); 1,250, Mar. 3 (BUR: ia yesiicc 27
(P.J.C., M.A.W.) and 940 on 2oth (B.K.). Summer records from
Chew Valley are of a pair on various dates, Apr.-June (P.J.C.,
B.K., M.A.W.) ; two males, June 7 and a female, July 14 (B.K.).
Figures from Cheddar res. again low, with max. of 30, Dec. 22
(J.A.McG.).
PINTAIL Anas acuta
G. High numbers for the species (Jan. and late in year) again
reported from the New Grounds; combined total of 185 on
Estuary and in W.T. enclosures, Jan. 24 (H.J.B.) and totals of 270
and 400 in same enclosures, Dec. 22 and 24 respectively (H.J.B., P.S.).
S. Noted, Blagdon res., only in very small numbers—chiefly in
period Oct.-Dec. (various observers). Reported from Chew
Valley, frequent intervals, Jan.-late Apr. and Nov.-Dec. (E.G.B.,
B.K. et al.), with max. counts of 32, Feb. 24; 21, Nov. 24 (G.C.B.,
S.1.B.) ; and: 18, Dec. 26 (P.J.C.). Coastal record of 14) sand
Bay, Nov. 16 (T.B.S.).
SHOVELER Spatula clypeata
G. Largest count, New Grounds (Estuary and W.T. enclosures)
—94, Dec. 22 (H.J.B.). Two females, Severn Beach, Dec. i
(G.C.B., S.1.B.).
S. Reported from Blagdon res., various dates, Jan.-Feb. and
in Nov.-Dec. (B.K.B., W.L.R. e al.), with max. totals of 32, Feb.
27 (G.C.B., $.I.B.) and 18, Nov. 27 (B.K.). Present Chew Valley
res. at all seasons, with peak counts of 130-170 in Mar. (G.C.B.,
B.K.) and 92-128 in Oct. (P.J.C., M.A.W.). The only note from
Cheddar res. is of six, Nov. 23 (B.K.). Breeding records show
that c. 30 pairs were resident and attempted to breed at Chew Valley
but owing largely to interference by Carrion Crows only six broods
are known to have reached the water (H.J.B., B.K.).
Scaup Aythya marila
S. One, ad. male, Chew Valley res., early Jan. to end of Apr.
(G.C.B., A.C.L., S.G.M. e al.) and up to four or five, various dates,
mid-Nov. to late Dec. (P.J.C., B.K., M.W.P. e¢ al.). Single
females, Barrow Gurney resrs., Feb. 10 (D.A.H., W.A.H.); Blagdon
res., Feb. 17, Dec. 1 (B.K.) ; and Cheddar res.) @en ia imac
(J.A.McG.). Coastal records of four off Brean Down (Weston
Bay), Dec. 23, 26 (T.B.S., M.A.W.).
BRISTOL BIRD REPORT 359
Turtep Duck Aythya fuligula
S. Large numbers, Chew Valley res., Mar.-Apr. and Nov.-
Dec. (G.C.B., S.I.B. e¢ al.), with peak totals of 418, Mar. 30 ; 360,
Apr. 22; 519, Nov. 30; 695, Dec. 14, and 564 on 22nd (B.K.).
Summer counts of 100-226, same place, on various dates, May-
July (P.J.C., B.K., M.A.W.), while breeding observations by H.J.B.
and B.K. show that at least 23 pairs bred successfully. At Blagdon
res., where two females may have nested but no young seen, numbers
varied from 95-160 in period Jan.-Mar. (B.K.B., M.A.W. et al.)
and from 70-244 in period Aug.-Dec. (G.C.B., P.T. et al.). Plenti-
ful, Cheddar res., throughout Jan., with max. of 170 on 27th
(J.A.McG.), but as numbers seldom exceeded 40 for remainder of
year it seems likely that the majority moved to Chew Valley
(H.H.D.). Other reservoir counts are of 57, Barrow Gurney,
Nano (Ml AW.) ; 43, same place, Feb. 24 (G.E.C.) ; and 20,
Chew Magna, Nov. 27 (P.J.C.).
PocHARD Aythya ferina
S. Again in considerable numbers, Cheddar res., Jan. and mid-
Oct. to end of year (B.K., W.L.R. e al.), with max. totals of 650,
Jan. 6 (J.A.McG.) ; 595, Oct. 14 (M.A.W.) ; 950, Nov. 10, and
890 on 24th (J.A.McG.). Numbers, Blagdon and Chew Valley
resrs., seldom in excess of 200, and often many fewer (S.E.C.,
Fi )e al.), but high counts at Blagdon of 400, Feb. 3 (G.C.B.,
S.I.B.) and 620, Nov. 30 (B.K.) probably due to birds driven out by
sailing disturbances at Cheddar. The only noteworthy record
from Barrow Gurney is of 31, Dec. 27 (G.E.C.).
GOLDENEYE Bucephala clangula
S. Blagdon res.: reported on various dates, Jan.-early Apr.
PG. GC. J.A.P.,.W.L.R. ¢é al.), with max. of 12, Feb. 24 (E.G.B.,
ml), Ularee, same place, Nov. ro (S.E.C.), Dec. 26 (P.J.C.), but
S.G.M. records 20, Dec. 31. Up to ten, various occasions, Cheddar
res., Jan.-Feb. (B.K., J.A.McG.) and up to four, Oct.-Dec.
(J.A.McG., M.W.P.). Reported from Chew Valley res., several
dates, Jan.-Apr. and Nov.-Dec. (S.E.C., M.A.W. e¢ al.), with max.
of 14, Feb. 24 (G.C.B., $.I.B.), Mar. 30 and Dec. 6 (B.K.).
LONG-TAILED Duck Clangula hyemalis
S. A female, Cheddar res., was first reported, Oct. 26 (G.G.C.)
and remained to end of year (P.J.C., B.K., J.A.McG., M.W.P.
et al.). )
360 BRISTOL BIRD REPORT
ComMMoN ScOTER WMelanitia nigra
G. Single male on the Estuary, New Grounds, June 29 (H.J.B.).
S. Female, Cheddar res., Mar 31 (B.K., J.A.McG.). One,
male, on R. Axe, Uphill, Aug. 29 (R.A.) and one, female or im-
mature, in flight off Sand Point, Oct. 12 (T.B.S.).
GOOSANDER Mergus merganser
S. Scarcer at the reservoirs than in recent years. Records
of three, Cheddar, Jan. 5 (J.A.McG., N.W.), 6 (B.K.) and single
birds, Mar. 10 (J.A.McG.), Dec. 6 (B.K.), and of two, Chew Valley,
Jan. 19 (G.G.C.) ; Nov. 24 (G.C.B., S.I.B.) and one, Dec. 6 (B.K.).
SMEW Mergus albellus
S. Noted at frequent intervals, Blagdon res., early Jan.-early
Mar. (E.G.B., S.E.C., W.L.R. eé al.), with max. of six or seven,
Feb. 24 (B.K.B., J.A.P., N.W.). Reported once ‘only, Gheddar
res.—a single bird, Jan. 27 (J.A.McG.), while records from Chew
Valley include those of seven, Jan. 27 (G.C.B., S.I.B.) and four,
Dec. 22 (B.K.). Barrow Gurney reports are of one, Feb. 24 ;
two, Mar.,3 ; and one, Dec. 22 (W.A.H.).
SHELDUCK Tadorna tadorna
G. New Grounds: 200 on Estuary, Feb. 20—an unusually high
figure for the date; .173, same place, Mar. ¢y(HueB. WV obs.
Observations at the New Grounds, mid-Aug., showed that only 21
ducklings reached fledging age (H.J.B., P.J.O.). Thirty-four,
Oldbury-on-Severn, Dec. 1 (T.D.H.M.).
S. Frequent counts in coastal areas—Yeo Estuary, Sand Bay
and Weston Bay—varied from 40-127 in period Jan.-Apr. and from
85-200 in period July-Dec. (R.A., W.L.R.). Reservoir records
include those of three, Barrow Gurney, Feb. 10 (D.A.H., W.A.H.) ;
two, Cheddar, Mar. 24 (J.A.McG.) ; and at least two pairs, Chew
Valley, various occasions, Apr.-Aug. (P.J.C., M.A.W. eé al.), one
of which bred successfully (H.J.B., N.W., R.F.W.).
WHITE-FRONTED GoosE Anser albifrons
G. Numbers at the New Grounds (1,700 at close of 1956) had
increased to 2,700, Jan. 24, and 3,300, Feb. 2, but were down to
1,860, Mar. 3; rapid decline thereafter—two, Mar. 18, being the
last seen (H.J.B. e¢ al.). One, evidently an immature White-front,
Yate Common, Jan. 21 (J.A.P.). First autumm record, New
Grounds : single bird, Sept. 26, but rapid increase to 920 by Oct.
BRISTOL BIRD REPORT 361
22 (unusually high for the date). Subsequent max, counts of
1,100, Nov. 28, and 2,200 Dec. 28 (H.J.B. e¢ al.),
S. About 40 geese, probably White-fronts, flying S.E. off
Brean Down, Feb. 2 (R.A.). Six in flight, St. George’s Wharf,
Portbury, Dec. 14 (N.W.). Nineteen, Chew Valley res., Jan. 19
(G.G.C., N.W.) and 35 on goth (B.K.). 26, same reservoir,
Mec. 26'to end of year (A.E.B., D.R.J.C., P.J.C., P.F. e¢ al.).
LrEssER WHITE-FRONTED GOosE Anser erythropus
G. First-winter bird, New Grounds, Jan. 19; two adults,
same place, mid-Jan. to early Mar. (H.J.B., M.D., P.S. e¢ al.).
BEAN GOOSE Anser arvensis
G. One, first seen in previous Dec., still present, New Grounds,
Jan. 6 (H.J.B.).
PINK-FOOTED GoosE Anser brachyrhynchus
G. One, immature, New Grounds, Jan. 10-Feb. 26 and single
ad., Feb. 26-Mar. 15. Four, same place, Sept. 29, were the first
autumn birds, but sharp increase to 136, Oct. 6, with max. count
of 137 on 15th. Marked decline to 87, Nov. 6, with numbers less
than 50 later in month and not exceeding half a dozen at any time
im Dec. (H.J.B.).
BRENT GOOSE Branta bernicla
G. First-winter bird of dark-breasted form B. b. bernicla, at
New Grounds, Dec. 22-31 (H.J.B., P.S. e¢ al.).
BARNACLE Goose SBranta leucopsis
G. One in first-winter plumage, New Grounds, Dec. 5 to end
pi year. (H.J.B. e al.),
CANADA Goose Branta canadensis
S. Two, Chew Valley res., various dates, Apr.13-May 26
(E.G.B., G.G.C., R.F.W. eé¢ al.).
Mote Swan) Cygnus olor
_§. Peak totals at the reservoirs from July, with max. at Blagdon
or 67, July 21 (B.K.) and 63, Aug. 17 (P.J.C.), and of 60-98 on
various occasions, Chew Valley, late Sept. to end of year (S.E.C.,
R.A.P., W.L.R. eé al.). Winter counts on R. Avon at Old Bridge,
_ Bath, again returned at c. 70, with average summer population
(non-breeding) of c. 50 (B.K.).
C
362 BRISTOL BIRD REPORT
BEWICK’s Swan” Cygnus bewrckit
G. Up to 15, New Grounds, for most of Jan., and single bird,
Feb. 4; family party of five, same place, Dec. 2-10 and again on
igth. Birds often seen in W.T. enclosures, usually in early morn-
ings—otherwise on Estuary (H.J.B., M.D., S.T.J. e¢ al.).
S. Eleven, Blagdon res., various dates, Jan. 3-27 (B.K.B.,
G.C.B., N.W. e al.) ; family party of seven, same reservoir, Dec. 1,
7 (B.K.). Sixteen flying S. over Long Ashton at 10.30 hrs., Dec.
31 ; similar number, Blagdon res., later in the day (15.30 hours.)
were probably the same birds (G.E.C., M.A.W.).
BuzzARD Buteo buteo
G. One, Oldbury-on-Severn, Mar. 3 (J.K.) and two soaring
over Sea Mills, Sept. 8 (H.W.N.).
S. Reported from a number of localities, chiefly Mendip area,
but little information on breeding success. Pair with single
juvenile, Hutton Wood, Aug. 3 (per W.L.R.) and adult with two
juveniles, Walton Moor, Clevedon, Aug. 6 (G.E.C., M.A.W.).
Kite Milous milvus
G. One over Tockington flying south-west at approx. 300 ft.,
Mar. 3, seen by A.E.B., who has supplied a confirmatory field
description. Salient features noted were the large size, forked
tail, and wings longer and less rounded than in Buzzard, with
characteristic light patches on undersides.
HEN HaArRRIER Circus cyaneus
G. Close views obtained of two females or immatures nr.
Wildfowl Trust enclosures, New Grounds, Dec. 30, 1956 (P.H.).
S. Female or immature, Chew Valley res., Jan. 13 (B.K.).
Hossy Falco subbuteo
G. One in flight, Downend, June 5 (R.H.P.).
PEREGRINE Falco peregrinus
S. Frequently seen outside breeding season between Clevedon
and Brean Down, but no evidence of breeding at coastal, or in-
land, eyries. | Reservoir records include those of single birds,
Chew Valley, Jan. 6, Mar. 31 (B.K.) ; male, Blagdon, Mar. 11
(E.G.B.) and single bird, same place, Nov. 9 (E.G.B., S.E.C.).
One seen to strike Jay which fell into Spartina and was not retrieved,
Axe Estuary, Oct. 4 (R.A.).
BRISTOL BIRD REPORT 363:
Meruin Falco columbarius
G. Male in flight, Yate, Mar. 1 (H.W.N.).
KestTr—EL Falco tinnunculus
G. A pair bred in the tower of St. Stephen’s Church, City
Centre, and reared four young (G.C.B.).
RED-LEGGED PARTRIDGE Alectoris rufa
S. One preening on stone wall, Sand Point, Mar. 16, and three
seen, Uphill on 20th (R.A.).
Water Rait Rallus aquaticus
S. Two in Spartina, Sand Bay, Jan. 19, 20, and one calling,
same place, Oct. 27 (R.A.). One seen and twice heard, Chew
Stoke, in early summer (T.H.P.).
CORNCRAKE Crex crex
S. One disturbed from grass ley, Long Ashton, Apr. 25 (F.H.).
Bird frequently calling in mowing grass, Compton Martin, from
June 9, was killed by mower on 26th: no nest found (T.H.P.).
Coot Fulica atra
S. In contrast to previous year (when late Feb. peak of 1,700
occurred—cf. Proc. B.N.S., 1956, p. 198), Cheddar res., population
showed early decline from winter maximum of 2,300, Jan. 20 to
1,400 on 27th and 380, Feb. 24. Highest totals, Chew Valley :
mo40, Jan. 27 (G.C.B., 8.1.B.) ; 1,500, Aug. 5 (B.K.) and 1,175,
Sept. 15 (P.J.C.). Small autumn population again noted, Blagdon
—max. number, 450, Dec. 12 (G.C.B., S.I.B.). Seven pairs bred,
Newton Park, Newton St. Loe. (M.F., B.K.).
OysTERCATCHER Haematopus ostralegus
G. Single bird, W.T. enclosures, New Grounds, Oct. 25 (M.D.).
S. 108, Axe Estuary, Feb. 14 (W.L.R.) ; up to 140, Weston
ay, Aug. 15-Sept. 27 (R.A.) ; .98, same place, Dec. 23 (T.B.S.) ;
and ten, Clevedon, Dec. 14 (P.F.). Two, Chew Valley res.,
Aug. 11 ; single bird, same place, Sept. 1 (P.J.C., M.A.W.).
Lapwine Vanellus vanellus
G. Present in large numbers, New Grounds, Jan.-Feb.; up
Ho 1,770, Feb. 4, 16 (H.J.B., B.K.).
364 BRISTOL BIRD REPORT
S. 550, mouth of Avon, Feb. 2 (P.J.C.) ; ¢. 750, Weston aero-
drome, Aug. 29 (W.L.R.). Reservoir records of 350, Blagdon,
Aug. 18, and 800, Chew Valley, Dec. 14 (B.K.).
RINGED PLOVER Charadrius hiaticula.
G. About 50, Oldbury-on-Severn, Jan. to and 131, Chitten-
ing Warth, Nov. 17 (T.D.H.M.).
S. Counts at Sand Bay include: 53, Feb. 10; 101, May 11;
270, Aug. 17; and 88, Sept. 27 (T.B.S.). Sixty-two, Weston Bay,
Dec. 11 (R.A.). Reservoir records of six, Chew Valley, May 8
(R.J.L.) > 20, same place, Aug. 11 (B.K.) and) three cept on
(M.W.P.) ; single birds, Cheddar, Aug. 11 (B.K.) and Blagdon,
)
Aug or) (bey Ci).
Grey PLoveR Charadrius squatarola
S. Reported only from Woodspring-Sand Bay area: two,
May 13; single birds, Sept. 19, Oct. 27 ;" three, Nov. 17), ane
four, Dec: 28 (R.A:; 1, Bis):
GOLDEN PLOVER Charadrius apricarius
S. 200 or more, Yeo Estuary, Jan. 3 (C.D.G.G.) ; 53, Lulsgate
aerodrome, Sept. 22 (B.K.) and 91, Dec. 1 (P.J.C., M.A.W.); 175,
Marksbury, Nov. 9 and an exceptional gathering of 570, same place,
Dec. 21 (B.K.), but numbers down to 117 on 23rd (R.J.L.). ‘Twenty-
six, Chew Valley res., Oct. 6 (T.D.H.M.) and 30, Blagdon res. on
oth (G.C.B., S.1.B.).
TURNSTONE Arenaria interpres
G. Two, in summer plumage, on the Estuary, New Grounds,
May 18 (N.W.) and five on 28th (M.D.). 125, Severn Beach,
Sept. 5 (H.W.N., M.A.W.).
S. Single birds inland: Chew Valley res., May 8 (B.K.) and
Cheddar res. on 12th (J.A.McG.). Coastal reports of seven, Cleve-
don, Aug. 6 (N.W.) ; single birds, Weston Bay, Aug. 13, Sept. 11 ;
and Sand Bay, Aug. 25 (R.A.).
CurRLEW Numenius arquata
G. 540, New Grounds, Feb. 4 (H.J.B.) ; 300-400, same place,
June 21 (Pay.O.).
S. Twenty, Chew Valley res., Jan 6 (B.K.).
BRISTOL BIRD REPORT 365
BLACK-TAILED Gopwit JLimosa limosa
G. Two, New Grounds, July 12 (M.D.) and seven on 13th
(H.J.B.) ; present in small numbers during Aug. with max. of
nine on 30th (M.D.) ; at least 40, same place, Sept. 22, and 35 on
Bere) (i1.|.b.)- 75, Sheperdine, Sept. 29 (W.A.H., T.D.H.M.).
S. Single birds, Chew Valley res., Mar. 2, Apr. 20 (B.K.).
Three, Yeo Estuary, May 9 (W.L.R.) ; two, same place, July 21
(T.B.S.) ; two, Kingston Seymour, July 28 (P.J.C.); and 12,
Weston Bay, Aug. 29 (R.A.).
BaAR-TAILED Gopwit Limosa lapponica
G. Single birds on Estuary, New Grounds, Mar. 19 (M.D.),
June 29 (H.J.B.), and July 23 (M.D.) ; two, same place, Sept. 20,
Be (id. ),b.): One, Sheperdine, Sept. 29 (W.A.H., T.D.H.M.).
S. Four, Chew Valley res., Apr. 26 (S.G.M.). Two, Sand Bay,
Aug. 25, and single birds, Weston Bay, various dates, Oct. 7-Dec. 12
(R.A.).
GREEN SANDPIPER Tringa ochropus
G. Single birds, Sheperdine, Oct. 27, and Oldbury-on-Severn,
Wee. 25 (1.D.H.M.).
S. One, Chew Valley res., Apr. 23; five, same place, June 20
and four on 27th (B.K.). Present in small numbers, Blagdon and
Chew Valley resrs., Aug. 5-Oct. 12, with max. of nine, Chew
Valley, Aug. 11 (various observers) ; one, same place, Nov. 3
Mis .). single birds, Wick St. Lawrence, July 20 (T.B.S.);
Woodspring Bay, Aug. 24 (R.A.) and Sept. 9 (T.B.S.). a
Woop SANDPIPER Tringa glareola
S. Single birds, Chew Valley res., Aug. 19-26 (S.G.M.) and
pept. 14, 22 (G.G.C.). |
COMMON SANDPIPER Aciitis hypoleucos
S. One, perhaps wintering, Chew Valley res., Nov. 30 (B.K. Vi
REDSHANK Tringa totanus
S. Max. coastal counts of 120, mouth of Avon, Feb. 2 (P.J.C.) ;
176, Sand Bay, Feb. 9 (T.B.S.) and c. 175, July 13 (R.A.) ; and
c. 150, Axe Estuary, Sept. 23 (R.A.). At least four pairs, two of
366 BRISTOL BIRD REPORT
them with small young, Kenn Moor, May 15 (T.B.S.). Fourteen,
apparently paired, Chew Valley res., May 25 (B.K.).
SPOTTED REDSHANK Tringa erythropus
G. Single bird on Estuary, New Grounds, July 13-23 (H.J.B.
et al.) ; another, same place, Aug. 30 (M.D.). Two in flight,
Severn Beach, Sept. 15 (H.H.D.).
S. One, Blagdon res., various dates, Jan.-Feb. (S.I.B., N.W.
et al.) and three, Feb. 24 (E.G.B., B.K., J.A.P.) ; single birds, same
place, Sept. 5, Oct. 9 (S.I.B.) and Nov. 27 (B.K.). Single birds,
frequently seen, Chew Valley res., Feb. 24-Nov. 30 (B.K. et al.) ;
one-shot in error ’’, same place, Dec. 21 (Ro)-B: pen Ga EY 2)
and one still present on 26th (P.J.C.).
GREENSHANK Tringa nebularia
G. Single birds, W.T. enclosures, New Grounds, Aug. 1, 10
and 30 (M.D.).
S. One, Chew Valley res., June 26 and three on 28th (B.K.) ;
one, sometimes two, same reservoir, Aug. I1-Sept. 21 (various
observers) and three, Sept. 22, 29 (D.R.J.C., M.W.P.). Single bird,
Cheddar res., Aug. 4, 11 (B.K., J.A.McG.).— Whree, Biaedon res:
Aug. 17, 31, and four, Sept.’8 (P.J.C., M.A W.).) three wornicnc:
same place, Sept. 15 (W.A.H. et al.)—thereafter single birds,
Sept. 22-Nov. 3 (various observers). One, perhaps wintering,
Blagdon, Nov. 27 (B.K.).
Knot Calidris canutus
G. 80-90, Oldbury-on-Severn, Jan. 11 (T.D.H.M.) and 53
Sheperdine, Sept..20)(W.A.FUaT.D HUM).
S. Forty, Clevedon, Jan. 27 (P.J.C:,) MAW. > Counts:
Sand Bay-Weston Bay area, include: 166, Jan. 28 (W.L.R.) ;
52, Sept. 8 ; 58, Oct.8; andc. 75, Dec.6(R.A.). Inland records :
one, Cheddar res., Sept. 8 (J.A.McG.) and up to three, Chew Valley
res., several occasions, Sept. 22-Oct. 1 (D.R.J.C., H.H.D., M.W.P.
et al.).
LittTLe StTiInT Calidris minuta
G. About 15 on Estuary, New Grounds, Feb. 18 (P.J.O.) and
two on 27th (H.J.B.); single birds, same locality, on two occasions,
Sept.-Oct. (M.D., T.P.W.).
BRISTOL BIRD REPORT 367
S. Single bird, Weston Bay, July 26 (R.A.) ; up to four, Sand
Bay, Sept. 21-26 (R.A., W.L.R., T.B.S.). Records from Chew
Walley res. include: one, Sept. 21 (M.W.P.); three, Sept. 26
(H.W.N.) ; four, Sept. 28 and eignt on 29th (B.K.) ; and one,
cro (D-R.J.C.).
CuRLEW SANDPIPER’ Calidris testacea
S. Single bird, Weston Bay, Sept. 3 (R.A.) ; one, Sand Bay,
Sept. 7, 8, 23 (R.A., T.B.S.) and three on 25th (T.B.S.). A
juvenile, Chew Valley res., Sept. 28, 29 (M.W.P.), Oct. 1 (D.R.J.C.).
SANDERLING Crocethia alba
G. ‘Two on Estuary, New Grounds, Aug. 27 (P.J.O.).
S. Four, Sand Bay, May 13 (T.B.S.) and eight, July 27 (R.A.).
In small numbers at coastal localities, Aug.-Sept.—usually up to ten
or so, but 54, Weston Bay, Aug. 31 (R.A.) and 30, Sand Bay,
Sept. 1, 7 (R.A., T.B.S.).
RurFr Philomachus pugnax
G. Three on the Estuary, New Grounds, Aug. 30 ; eleven, same
place, Sept. 24 (M.D.) and three on 26th (H.J.B.).
S. Records from Chew Valley res. include: five, May 26;
four, Aug. 18 (B.K.) ; six, Aug. 21 (S.G.M.) ; and four juveniles,
Sept. 21 (M.W.P.). Party of five, Uphill, Aug. 31 (W.L.R.) and
single bird, Sand Bay, Sept. 22 (R.A.).
Grey PHALAROPE Phalaropus fulicarius
S. Single bird, Chew Valley res., Nov. 3, 4 (E.G.B., P.T. et al.).
LessER BLACK-BACKED GuLL Larus fuscus graellsi
S. Breeding again took place at Chew Valley res. but no reliable
nest count available (P.J.C., B.K.). Reports by same observers
indicate that the roost at this res. was again occupied throughout
year—max. count of 500, Nov. 3. Adult ringed, Steep Holm
10/4/50, found dead, Barrow Gurney resrs., 10/6/57 and bird
ringed as juv., 9/7 /52, seen (ring number read) on Flat Holm, Mon.,
26/5/57, where mixed colony of fuscus and argentatus has recently
been established (Res. Stn.).
SCANDINAVIAN LESSER BLACK-BACKED GuLL Larus fuscus fuscus
G. One considered to be of this form, seen in enclosures, New
Grounds, several occasions, Oct.-Dec. (B.K., Jnr. Sect.).
368 BRISTOL BIRD REPORT
HERRING GuLuL Larus argentatus
G. Pair bred successfully, Aust Cliff, single chick being reared
(J.S.W. per Western Daily Press, 12/8/57). Third breeding record
for Gloucestershire side of district—cf. Proc. B.N.S., 1952, p. 325.
S. At least 1,000 roosting, Chew Valley res., Aug. 28 (B.K.).
One ringed as fourth-year bird, Steep Holm, 13/11 /55, found dead,
Flat Holm, Mon., 26/5/57 (Res. Stn.)—see also under Lesser
Black-backed Gull.
Giaucous GuLtL Larus hyperboreus
S. Remains of immature bird found in tide-wrack, Clevedon,
Dec-—12 (D.A.W., R.F.W.).
LittLeE Gutu Larus minutus
S. Juvenile, Cheddar res., Aug. 25 (E.G.B.; B.K., P.T.), and a
first-winter bird, Chew Valley res., Dec. 26, 27 and 29 (A.E.B.,
Pay G. NEA WV.)
SABINE’S GULL Xema sabini
S. Juvenile, feeding with Black-headed Gulls on mudflats
(also seen in flight), Weston-super-Mare, Sept. 23 (R.A.). Des-
criptive details supplied include: small size, white forehead,
black primaries and grey-brown leading edge of rest of wing,
white triangular patches on secondaries, and slightly forked tail.
KitTIwAkE Rissa iridactyla
G. & S. After a series of severe gales over the eastern Adlantic
lasting from Jan. 25 to early Feb., a ‘ wreck’ occurred on the west
coast of Britain. Only one report for Gloucestershire side of
district—single ad. found dead in canal, Slimbridge, Feb. 16—
but numerous records received from N. Somerset, these being mainly
from the coast and Cheddar reservoir. The minimum loss is
estimated to be 104, composed of 97 dead and 7 live birds which
doubtless did not survive (various observers).
Coastal records : Sand Bay /Weston Bay area—22 live, 1 dead,
Feb. 10 ; 6 live, 4 dead, Feb. 16 ; 11 dead on 25th and 8 more dead
subsequently ; R. Yeo—Kingston Seymour, 5 dead, Feb. 24;
Clevedon—7 live, 3 dead, Feb. 16, and 2 live on 24th; Portishead
—7 or 8 live, 2 dead, Feb. 16, and 1 live on 24th; Steep Holm—
3 dead, Mar. 28.
Talend records: single birds found dead, Barrow Gurney and
Blagdon resrs., Feb. 10, and Long Ashton on 14th. At Cheddar
BRISTOL BIRD REPORT ' 369
res., 26 dead found, Feb. 19-Mar. 11; 2 living, March 24 and 1 on
gist: a further 30 reported to have been buried by reservoir
keeper. Single birds in flight, R. Avon, Bedminster, Bristol,
Feb. 14, 15, and Keynsham in early March.
Single immature, Cheddar res., Aug. 25; two on 26th, and
another, Nov. 3 (E.G.B., J.A.McG. ef al.).
Biack TERN Chlidonias niger
G. At least ten over R. Severn, New Grounds, on morning of
Sept. 26 (P.J.O.) and three in afternoon (H.J.B.).
S. Few spring records: one, Cheddar res., May 25 (B.K.) and
five on 26th (J.A.McG.) ; 17, Chew Valley res., May 25, 18 on
26th and two on 2oth (B.K.). Numbers in August small, as last
year, but following similar weather conditions to those associated
with movements of the species in recent years—frontal disturbances
with light to moderate easterly winds and heavy cloud and precipi-
tation over the whole of the east coast and adjacent continental
coastline from Norway to northern France (cf. Brit. Birds, xiv,
pp. 300-307)—a remarkable influx took place, over 500 being
reported from the resrs. on Sept. 21 (30, Cheddar (W.A.H.) and
480, Chew Valley—largest inland count for Gt. Britain (M.W.P.)).
All N. Somerset resrs. visited on following day by P.J.C., H.H.D.
and M.A.W. who counted c. 280 (12, Barrow Gurney ; 62, Blag-
don; 18, Cheddar; and 191 + 10, Chew Valley). Numbers
smaller thereafter with counts returned of 16, Chew Valley, Sept.
ey (..b.,' MP.) ; 30, same place, Sept. 28 (H.G.A., B.K.)
and 12 on 29th (M.W.P.) ; five, Cheddar, Sept. 28 (W.A.H.) and
ten on 29th (J.A.McG.). Single birds, Chew Valley, Oct. 6
(N.W.), 12 (M.W.P.).
Coastal records: one feeding over rough pasture on coast,
Clevedon, Aug. 6 (D.A.W., N.W., R.F.W.) and one behaving
similarly, Woodspring Bay on t1oth (R.A.)—vide Brit. Birds 1,
p- 538; four, Axe Estuary, Sept. 23 (R.A.) ; four, Sand Bay,
Sept. 24 and two on 26th (T.B.S.).
CoMMON TERN _ Sterna hirundo Arctic TERN Sterna macrura
S. Only two spring records—single birds, Chew Valley res.,
May 10, 11 (G.C.B. e al). Frequently reported, usually single
birds, from reservoirs with maxima of six, Cheddar, Aug. 11 (B.K.)
and 15 on 26th (N.W.) ; seven, Chew Valley, Sept. 22 (M.W.P.)
and eight on 29th (B.K.). Parties of eight, Sand Bae Sept. 23,
and six off Sand Point on 25th (T.B.S.).
370 BRISTOL BIRD REPORT
LitrLe TERN Sterna albifrons
S. One, Blagdon res., July 5, 1956 (C.S.L.).
RAZORBILL Alca torda
S. Freshly dead adults on shore, Sand Bay, Mar. 18 (T.B.S.)
and gist (R.A.) ; dead juvenile, Clevedon, Aug. 30 (D.A.W.,
N.W., R.F.W.).
Barn Ow. Tyto alba
G. Single birds noted in breeding season, Milbury Heath, May
29, and Engine Common, nr. Yate, June 7 (J.A.P.).
S. Successful breeding reported from sites near Cheddar res.
(G.S. e¢ al.) ; two localities at Chew Valley res. (D.A.W., R.F.W.) ;
and Portishead (N.J.B.).
SHORT-EARED Ow. Asio flammeus
S. One hunting over plantation, Priddy Pool, Mendip, April. 16
(S.G.M.) and another, dead, Clevedon, Nov. 28 (D.A.W., R.F.W.).
KINGFISHER Alcedo atthis
G. Seen frequently along R. Boyd (D.R.H.). Single bird on
R. Trym, Coombe Dingle, Feb. 24 (W.A.H.) and a pair, Sea Mills,
Mar. 24 (H.W.N.). One, Sneyd Park Lake, Nov.-Dec.
S. Noted in breeding season at the reservoirs, Newton Park,
Hunstrete Park and Monk’s Wood res., nr. Bath; on R. Avon,
Saltford ; and R. Chew, Chewton Keynsham (various observers).
GREAT SPOTTED WOODPECKER Dendrocopos major
G. Two, male and female, stripped most of bark from pear tree,
suburban garden, Bishopston, Bristol, Sept.-Dec. (D.A.W., R.F.W.).
LEssER SPOTTED WOODPECKER JDendrocopos minor
G. One nr. Wick, Dec. 7 (D.R.H.).
S. Pair, Blagdon, Apr. 11 (T.D.H.M.) and single birds, Mar.
3, June 27 (B.K.) and Nov. to (P.J.C., M.A.W.). Single birds
also reported from suburban garden, Bishopston, Sept. 24 (D.A.W.,
R.F.W.) ; Sand Bay, Oct. 3 ; and Uphill, Dec. 14 (R.A.).
Woop.LaRK Lullula arborea
S. The only breeding record is of an adult with four juvs.,
Crook Peak, May 4 (R.A.).
BRISTOL BIRD REPORT 371
HousE Martin’ Delichon urbica
S. Three in flight over Weston Woods on late date of Nov. 17
(R.A.).
RAVEN Corvus corax
S. Three young reared, Brean Down (W.L.R. eé al.), but no
other breeding records. Frequently seen over Weston-super-
Mare flying to and from Town Quarry where up to five roosted
intermittantly from June to Aug. and up to three thereafter (R.A.).
Jay Garrulus glandarius
G. Exceptional movement reported from New Grounds area,
Oct. 1-5— three flocks totalling over 50 birds seen flying northwards
in one hour on morning of grd (H.J.B., M.D., S.T.J.).
Great Tir Parus major BuuE Tir = Parus caeruleus
Coa. Tir Parus ater MarsH Tir Parus palustris
S. What appeared to be unusual numbers in Weston Bay area,
mid-Sept. to mid-Oct. Migratory behaviour noted by small
flocks of Blue Tits totalling c. 50 birds, Sand Point, Sept. 19 and a
Coal Tit and three Marsh Tits also present on 2ist (T.B.S.). On
Steep Holm, two Great Tits, 12 Blue Tits and two Coal Tits seen,
Oct. 5 and at least 20 Blue Tits and six Coal Tits present on follow-
ing day (Res. Stn.).
Two Blue Tits trapped, Long Ashton, late December, had both
been ringed as adults, same place, five years earlier on 17/12/52
iG:E..G.),
‘TREECREEPER Certhia familiaris
S. One in trees over landing beach, Steep Holm, Oct. 5 (Res.
Stn.)—first record for the island.
Dreprper Cinclus cinclus
G. Single birds, Little Avon River, Kingswood, July 13
(T.D.H.M.) and R. Boyd, nr. Wick, Oct. 5 (D.R.H.).
MistLE THrusH Turdus viscivorus
S. See under Song Thrush.
Sonc TurusH Turdus ericetorum
S. Six seen leaving Steep Holm on morning of Oct. 5. Birds
circled overhead to gain height and, joining up with two Mistle
372 BRISTOL BIRD REPORT
Thrushes, departed in a westerly direction ; three more seen leaving
on 6th (Res. Stn.).
Rinc OuzeL Turdus torquatus
S. Single male, Crook Peak, Mar. 23 (R.A.).
WHEATEAR’ Oenanthe oenanthe
S. Three pairs bred successfully, Wavering Down, Compton
Bishop, nine young being reared (P.J.M.N.).
BLACK REDsTART Phoenicurus ochruros
S. One, female or immature, in private gardens, Bath, Nov. 10
(ACC BE Gp)
GRASSHOPPER WARBLER’ Locustella naevia
G. Singing males in garden, Clifton, Apr. 20 (P.J.C.); in
hedgerow between Hambrook and Harry Stoke, Apr. 23 (R.H.P.) ;
and at Codrington, June 11 (J.A.P.).
S. One in song, Chew Valley, May 5 (B.K.), and at least three,
Walton Moor, Clevedon on 11th (R.A.).
Woop WARBLER Phylloscopus sibilatrix
G. & S. Seven singing males resident in area of c. 2881 sq. kms.
(1114 sq. miles) enclosed by the following boundaries: R. Avon
from Bristol to Batheaston, County boundary north to Tormarton,
and roads through Old Sodbury—Yate—Iron Acton—Rudgeway
—Patchway—Filton—Bristol. (2 males, Lygrove Grove, St.
Catherine ; 2, Aldermoor Wood and 1, Soper’s Wood, Charl-
combe ; 2, Beaulieu nr. Kelston (Survey by 10 members and 3
Bath N.H. Soc. members).
Gotporest Regulus regulus
S. One, Steep Holm, Mar. 29; three caught and ringed, same
place, Oct. 5-6 (Res. Stn.).
TREE Pipir Anthus trivialis
S. Plentiful in breeding season around Chew Valley res. (B.K.).
BRISTOL BIRD REPORT 373
Rock Pipir Anthus spinoletta petrosus
§. Reservoir records (presumably this race): one, Cheddar,
Bea. 20 (B.K.); two, same place, Oct. 6, and three on 13th
(J.A.McG.). Twelve, Brean Down, Feb. 17 (P.J.C., M.A.W.).
Water Pipir Anthus spinoletia spinoletia
S. One, viewed at close range, Cheddar res., Dec. 1 by B.K.,,
who has supplied full details.
Prev Wactait Motacilla alba yarrelliu
S. Up to 150 roosting in Spartina, Sand Bay, Sept.-Oct. (T.B.S.).
Roost on glass roofs, W. D. & H. O. Wills’, No. 1 Fty., Bedminster,
Bristol, still in use Nov.-Dec. (P.J.C.)—cf. Proc. B.N.S., 1951,
Pp. 252.
Waite Wactait Motacilla alba alba
S. At least twelve in field adjoining Barrow Gurney resrs.,
Sept. 27, 28 (H.G.A., B.K.). Single bird among Pied Wagtails,
Blagdon res., on late date of Nov. 9 (B.K.).
Grey WactaiL Motacilla cinerea
S. Single bird, Steep Holm, Oct. 6 (Res. Stn.).
YELLOW WactTaiL Motacilla flava flavissima
S. One (male), Cheddar res. on early date of Mar. 31 (B.K.).
One seen in flight and later settled on path, Steep Holm, Apr. 28
(Res. Stn.).
WaxwinG = Bombycilla garrulus
G. One in Wildfowl Trust enclosures, New Grounds, Nov. 17
(M.D.) and another feeding on cotoneaster berries, garden, West-
bury-on-Trym, Nov. 20, 21 (per H.W.N.).
S. Three on cotoneaster shrub in garden, Clevedon, Dec. 15
(A.T.), and single bird, Royal Victoria Park, Bath, Dec. 8, 15
iper R.J.L.).
RED-BACKED SHRIKE Lantus collurio
S. Breeding reports received from Charterhouse (D.A.W. et al )
and nr. Cheddar reservoir (per J.A.McG.).
374 BRISTOL BIRD REPORT
STARLING Sturnus vulgaris
S. Roost, estimated at 50,000 birds, in wood, Newton St. Loe,
Dec. 23) (Re).
HawrincH Coccothraustes coccothraustes
G. One in flight, Frenchay, Apr. 6 (R.H.P.) and two on the
Downs, Bristol, Dec. 8 (P.J.M.N.).
S. At least three pairs, Leigh Woods—two nests found from
one of which four young reared (P.J.C.).
SISKIN Carduelis spinus
S. Two in alders, Barrow Gurney resrs., Feb. 10 (G.E.C.).
Two on Sand Point, Sept. 20 (T.B.S.)—early date for the species
(Eds.).
CrossBiLL Loxia curvirostra
S. One, Ubley, Blagdon, Jan 15 (B.K.) and party of twelve on
19th (N.W.) ; nine still present, Feb. 3 (G.C.B., S{1.B)) Two,
Abbots Leigh, Apr. 2 (A.G.D.).
Cirt Buntinc Emberiza cirlus
S. Reported from Portishead, Kewstoke, Bleadon and Loxton
in breeding season (R.A., C.D.G.G., T.B.S.).
Snow Buntinc Plectrophenax nivalis
S. Single birds reported from Cheddar res. Nov. 17 (B.K.) ;
Sand Point, same date (T.B.S.) ; and Weston-super-Mare, Dec.
T1((RA.).
TREE SPARROW Passer montanus
G. Partial albino, New Grounds, Feb. 16 (N.W.). Small
roost of c. 20 birds in reeds, Almondsbury, Oct. 25 (A.E.B. e al.).
Flock of 6-10, Wick, Dec. 26-31 (D.R.H.).
S. Approx. 20, Wick St. Lawrence, Sept. 19, and six, Sand
Point, Oct. 12, (1.B.S:);
375.
MeEPIDOPRTERA NOTES
Pes TOL DISTRICT, 1957
By?C., 5S... Beatuwayr
FTER one of the mildest winters for many years spring was very
A early and March wasa finewarm month. April and May were
both mainly fine but rather cold but some very warm weather was
experienced in June and early July. ‘The remainder of the Summer
was, however, very disappointing and there was little fine weather
until October, which once again was a good month.
The year was a bad one so far as both butterflies and moths were
concerned and there is little of real interest to report from the
Bristol District.
The following notes are taken from records supplied by C. L.
Bell (C.L.B.), H. W. Bird (H.W.B.), A. P. Chapman (A.P.C.), and
also from my own records (C.S.H.B.). As all the Weston records
are my own and all those from Clevedon are by H. W. Bird I have
omitted initials after records from these two places.
Colias Croceus Fourc. (edusa Fabr.) (Common Clouded-yellow). A few reported
from Bishop Sutton from end of August to beginning of September (A.P.C.).
Argynnis aglaia Linn. (Dark Green Fritillary). Common in one locality in Men-
dips at end of June. One melanic var. taken (C.L.B.).
Vanessa cardui Linn. (Painted Lady). One reported from Bishop Sutton August
28 (A.P.C.).
Vanessa atalanta Linn. (Red Admiral). One seen at Bishop Sutton, April 24
(AP...
Thecla betulae Linn. (Brown Hairstreak). One female near Glastonbury, August
6 (C.S.H.B.).
Pseudoips bicolorana Fuessl. (quercana Schiff.) (Scarce Silver-lines). Several at
light, Weston, July.
Apatele leporina Linn. (Miller). One at light, Clevedon, June 29.
Amathes ditrapezium Borkh. (Triple-spotted Clay). One at Irght, Clevedon,
July 5.
Hadena conspersa Esp. (nana Rott.) (Common Marbled Coronet). Several at
light, Clevedon, in June.
Apamea furva Hubn. (Confused Brindle). A few at light, Weston and Clevedon, |
late June and early July.
376 Cc. S. H. BLATHWAYT
Apamea unanimis Hubn. (Small Clouded Brindle). ‘Two at light at Clevedon in
early June.
Apamea sublustris Esp. (Reddish Light Arches). Common at light at Clevedon.
A few at Weston in June.
Apamea scolopacina Esp. (Slender Brindle), One at light, Weston, July 14.
Dasypolia templi Thunb. (Brindled Ochre). A few at light, Weston, late September
to October.
Arenostola fluxa Hubn. (hellmanni Ev.( (Mere Wainscot). One at light, Clevedon,
July 5.
Mythimna turca Linn. (Double-line Wainscot). One at light, Weston, July 6.
Laphygma exigua Hubn. (Small Mottled Willow). One at light, Clevedon, July 2.
Cucullia chamomillae Schiff. (Chamomile Shark). One at light, Weston, March 29.
Dasycampa rubiginea Fabr. (Dotted Chestnut). Several at light, Clevedon in
early March.
Pyrrhia umbra Hufn. (Bordered Orange). One at light, Clevedon, July 2.
Heliothis peltigera Schiff. (Dark Bordered Straw). One at light, Weston, March 27.
Tholomiges turfosalis Wocke (Marsh Oblique-barred). One at light, Weston,
July 31.
Sterrha inornata Haw. (Plain Wave). Four at light, Clevedon, June 17.
Sterrha trigeminata Haw. (Treble-spot Wave). Several at light, in Clevedon,
early June.
Discoloxia blomeri Curt. (Blomer’s Rivulet). A few at light, Weston, in June.
Nyctosia obstipata Fabr. (fluviata Hubn.) (Narrow-barred Carpet). One at light,
Clevedon, August 4.
Eupithecia succenturiata Linn. (Bordered Pug). ‘Three at light, Clevedon, July
4 and 5.
Eupithecia valerianata Hubn, (Valerian Pug). ‘Two at light, Clevedon, May 27,
June 17.
Eupithecia inturbata Hubn. (Maple Pug). One at light, Weston, July 31.
Apocheima hispidaria Fabr. (Small Brindled-beauty) One at light, Clevedon,
March, 7.
Dioryctria splendidella H.S. (Splendid Knot-horn). One at light, Clevedon,
junert7-
377
HEMIPTERA-HETEROPTERA
Mest OL DISTRICT, 1957
By M. AcKLAND
The nomenclature followed is that of Kloet and Hincks A
Check List of British Insects, Stockport 1945.
Where no dates are given the species were noted on several
occasions. (G) indicates Gloucestershire, (S) Somerset, taking the
river Avon as the boundary.
Mr. G. Woodroffe, of the Pest Infestation Laboratory, Slough,
has kindly checked any doubtful specimens.
Cynidz
Sehiris bicolor (Linn.) one specimen, Almondsbury (G.), July 28.
Pentatomide
Dolycoris baccarum (Linn.) Hibernated, common at Coombe Dingle (G.), in May.
Palomena prasina (Linn.) Abundant, Coombe Dingle (G.), in May and October.
Acanthosoma hemorrhoidale (Linn.) One specimen on hawthorn, Clifton Downs,
(G.), May 3.
Coreidz
Rhopalus subrufus (Gmel in Linn.) Common in the spring, Coombe Dingle (G.)
Myrmus miriformis (Fall.) Abundant by sweeping, Leigh Woods (S.), in August.
Neididz
Berytinus montivagus (M-D) One specimen, Stroud (G.), July 25.
Lygeidz
Cymus glandicolor Hahn. Leigh Woods (S.), July 31.
Heterogaster urtice (Fab.) One in house, Weston-super-Mare (S.), May 12.
lied pedestris (Fall.) Abundant in moss and debris, Leigh Woods (S.),
uly 31.
Trapezonotus arenarius (Linn.) Abundant at Coombe Dingle (G.), May and July.
Rhyparochromus pini (Linn.) One specimen, Coombe Dingle (G.), July 24.
Drymus sylvaticus (Fab.) Coombe Dingle, Almondsbury, Brentry (G.).
Scolopostethus affinis (Schill.) Almondsbury and Clifton Downs (G.).
Tingide
Tingis cardui (Linn.) Clifton Downs (G.) and Flax Bourton (S.).
Nabide
Nabis ferus (Linn.) Abbots Leigh, Leigh Woods (S.).
N. flavomarginatus Scholtz. Coombe Dingle (G.), Flax Bourton (S.).
378 M. ACKLAND
N. rugosus (Linn.) Leigh Woods (S.).
N. ericetorum Scholtz. Brentry, Coombe Dingle (G.), Leigh Woods (S.)
N. lativentris Boh. Abundant at Coombe Dingle (G.), in August.
N. major Costa. One specimen on hazel, Leigh Woods (S.), Sept. 22.
N. limbatus Dahl. Wickwar (G.), Leigh Woods and Abbots Leigh (S.).
Anthocoridz
Anthocoris confusus Reut. Wickwar (G.), Leigh Woods, Long Ashton (S.).
A. nemoralis (Fab.) Clifton Downs (G.), Leigh Woods (S.).
A. nemorum (Linn.) Henbury, Almondsbury (G.)
Xylocoris cursitans (Fall.) Abundant under pine bark, Coombe Dingle (G.), in
October.
Miride
Phytocoris tiie (Fab.) Tockington (G.), July 28.
P. varipes Boh. Leigh Woods (S.), July 21.
Adelphocoris lineolatus (Goeze) Abundant, Leigh Woods, in July.
Calocoris sexguttatus v. insularis Reuter. Common by sweeping nettle, Abbots
Leigh (S.), June 30.
C. alpestris (M-D) Four specimens taken at Tockington (G.) by sweeping grass,
May 25. Altitude 250 ft. This species has only been recorded at high
altitudes in Northern England and on the Mendips. A new county record.
Stenotus binotatus (Fab.) Wickwar, Brentry (G.).
Lygus pabulinus (Linn.) Leigh Woods (S.), June 19.
L. contaminatus (Fall.) Leigh Woods (S).
L. rugilipennis Abbots Leigh, Flax Bourton (S.).
L. maritimus Stroud (G.), Portishead (S).
Orthops campestris (Linn.) Portway (G.), May 22.
Rhopalotomus ater (Linn.) Brentry (G.), Leigh Woods (S.).
Stenodema calcaratum (Fall.) Leigh Woods (S.), May ig.
S. levigatum (Fall.) Leigh Woods (S.), August 18.
Notostira erratica (Linn.) Flax Bourton (S), August 3.
Megaloceroea linearis (Fuess.) Leigh Woods (S.), July 21.
Leptopterna dolabrata (Linn.) Brentry (G.), Leigh Woods (S.).
Dicyphus epilobit Reuter. Wickwar (G.), July 25.
D. globifer (Fall.) Leigh Woods (S.), May 25.
Cyllecoris flavoquadrimaculatus (Degeer.) One specimen by sweeping grass, Tock-
ington (G.), May 26.
Orthotylus nassatus (Fab.) Abbots Leigh (S.).
O. tenellus (Fall.) Leigh Woods (S.).
Capsus meriopterus (Scop.) Common on hawthorn, Clifton Downs (G.).
Harpocera thoracica (Fall.) Coombe Dingle (G.), by sweeping nettles in May.
Orthonotus rufifrons (Fall.) Brentry (G.), June 20. |
Phylus coryli (Linn.) Brentry (G.), June 20.
P. melanocephalus (Linn.) Common on oak, Leigh Woods (S.).
Psallus ambiguus (Fall.) On apple, Stoke Bishop (G.), June 2.
379
RPetOsAUR FROM PORTLAND
R. J. G. SAVAGE
UNIVERSITY OF BRISTOL
HE occurrence of large marine reptiles in the Portlandian is
rare and the find of a complete femur at Pliosaurus portlandicus
Owen 188g in the quarries of Portland merits note.
The bone has been completely freed from the matrix. Though
broken in places, there are scarcely any fragments missing and it
has been fully restored. ‘The bone is a left femur and is very similar
to the type of the species based on a right hind limb. ‘The proximal
articulation is convex, mammillated and roughly circular in section,
with its anterior margin distended outward into a flattened shelf.
Below the head the shaft is constricted, though remaining circular
for about half of its length, after which it gradually becomes
flattened dorso-ventrally and expanded antero-posteriorly. The
distal border forms a long narrow crescent, expanded slightly onto
the sides of the shaft anteriorly and posteriorly, thus giving firm
attachment to the paddle bones. ‘There are distinct traces of muscle
scars along the posterior side of the proximal part of the shaft :
these presumably carried paddle flexor muscles.
The following table gives measurements made on the recorded
find, together with re-measurements on Owen’s type.*
Pliosaurus Pliosaurus
portlandicus portlandicus
right femur left femur
BM 40640 (type) 10562
Maximum length 2 : =. 12%” (39.1 em) 12 }” (30.8 cm)
Maximum proximal diameter b 38" (3:6, 45.9) ore (80a)
Maximum distal diameter Be meee. 6° (152205502) 5h” (13.2 ,,
Maximum diameter, middle of shaft .. 22” ( 6.0 ,,_ ) at” ( 5.8 ,,
The specimen considered is so similar to Owen’s type that there is
no doubt they are the same species.
The type of Pliosaurus portlandicus in the British Museum (Natural
History) comprises an incomplete right paddle with femur, fibula,
* Owen (1889) gave scale drawings and quoted measurements for the femur.
Regrettably the two do not correspond, nor does either compare exactly with the
original. wen’s quoted measurements are correct if ‘line’ is read as eighth
instead of twelfth of an inch.
380 R. J. G. SAVAGE
six tarsal bones, three metatarsals and one phalanx. ‘The British
Museum collections also contain several vertebrae, fragmentary
ribs and a few paddle bones, all that is known of the species, and all
collected in the last century. ‘Two of these vertebrae were des-
cribed and figured by Lydekker (1890).
The specimen described was embedded in a block of Portland
stone, probably from the Whit or Base Bed freestone. The speci-
men has recently been presented to the University, but had been in
the possession of a quarry foreman for some years and the precise
details of its horizon cannot now be traced.
My thanks are due to the Bath & Portland Stone Firms Ltd.,
for bringing the bone to notice and presenting it to the Geology
Museum, University of Bristol, and also to the British Museum
(Natural History) for permission to consult the type specimen.
REFERENCES
Lydekker, R. (1890). Contributions to our knowledge of the
Dinosaurs of the Wealden and the Sauropterygians of the
Purbeck and Oxford Clay. Quart. F. Geol. Soc., London 46,
pp. 36-53.
Owen, R. (1889). Monograph on Reptilia of the Kimmeridge
Clay and Portland Stone. Palaeontographical Society, London,
pp. 8-12, Plate IV.
Poke LOCAL BARNACLES
By R. BAssINDALE
INTRODUCTION
HE rocky shores of the British Isles are inhabited by vast num-
bers of barnacles which encrust and in places completely cover
the rocks above low water of neap tides. The barnacles may
occur at the rate of about 150 per square inch and a mile of suit-
able shore carries sixteen hundred million individuals with an
annual output of living tissue which, when dried, weighs nearly a
ton. They also produce—annually—one and a half million
million larvae weighing nearly 3 cwt whendried. This abundant
supply of material not only provides food for many shore animals
(fish, crabs, worms, sea slugs, whelks and centipedes) but must
obviously have a profound effect on the sea near the shore, for it
is from the water that the barnacles derive their food during the
high tide period and it is into the water that they pour, at the
appropriate season, their innumerable offspring.
HABITS AND LIFE HISTORY
On examination the individual barnacle is seen to consist of a
conical or cylindrical wall of over-lapping shelly plates with a hole
at the top. This hole is closed by two valves which can be opened
like double doors to permit the animal within to extrude its hairy
legs in a rhythmic sweep. In this way it combs the water for small
living organisms which are filtered out from the water and
swallowed. Barnacles will take almost any living microscopic
organism, whether animal or plant, whose size ranges from 1
millimetre down to about three-thousandths of a millimetre.
Barnacles are firmly cemented to the rock and knowledge of
their life history indicates their origin. At the appropriate season
the barnacles mate with neighbouring individuals (each barnacle is
both male and female so that all eventually produce eggs) and the
eggs are retained within the shell for several weeks.
They eventually hatch and the larvae are discharged into the sea
water. If, at the breeding season, barnacles are chipped off the
382 R. BASSINDALE
rocks and placed in a dish of sea water, the minute larvae are easily
seen swimming towards the light. These nauplius larve (Fig. 1)
live for 3 or 4 weeks in the surface layers of the sea and feed on
diatoms (microscopic plants). After passing through six clearly
marked growth stages they change into a non-feeding stage called
the cypris larva (Fig. 1).
CYPRIS e = \ NAUPLIUS
_
SHELL REMOVED
Serle SS
ny
STAGES IN SETTLEMENT
Fic. 1. The larval stages and metamorphosis of a barnacle. (Mainly after
Runnstrom).
These cypris larve are from one half to one millimetre long and
are soon attracted back to the shore and seek out a suitable place to
settle. ‘They will usually settle near barnacles of their own species
and can distinguish these from other species.
Given a choice the cyprid will settle in a groove or depression
rather than on a flat surface and if in a groove it will align itself with
the long axis along the groove. If, however, it is on a flat surface
(or in a circular depression) it will align itself along the direction of
light or along the current and if these are conflicting it will choose
the light direction in preference to the current direction.
THE LOCAL BARNACLES 383
Two other aspects of selection in settlement are also displayed.
Cyprids belonging to a species which lives high on the shore will
only settle in very strong light while others settle best in a dim light ;
cyprids of species which live on wave-washed coasts will not settle
at all in very sheltered localities.
It was at one time believed that the larve of animals like barnacles
settled in their millions all over the sea bed and that those which
settled in places unsuited to the adults died off leaving only those
that had settled in the ‘right’ places. It now seems clear from
detailed studies of marine larve, and particularly of barnacle
cyprids, that the pattern of distribution of the adults is determined
mainly by the selection and choice shown by the larve and that
this pattern is modified to only a slight extent by differential
mortality.
Having selected a suitable spot for settlement the cypris under-
goes a profound metamorphosis and cements itself down onto the
rock where it stays for the rest of its life of usually a few years.
IDENTIFICATION
In South West England there are three really common shore
barnacles and each displays features of much interest while conform-
ing to the general pattern of life described above. The species are :
Chthamalus stellatus
Balanus balanoides
Elminius modestus
All three are small and resemble each other superficially. Close
examination shows detailed differences. The wall of plates which
encloses the animal consists, in Elminius, of four separate pieces
whereas in the other two there are six plates (Fig. 2). In the case of
Chthamalus the plates at the two ends of the slit-like opening are over-
lapped by the lateral plates; whereas in Balanus the carina is
overlapped by the lateral plates but the rostrum overlaps the
laterals. In addition the opening of the shell is kite shaped in
Chthamalus and diamond shaped in Balanus and Elminius (that is to
say the widest part is near one end in Chthamalus and near the middle
in Balanus).
CROWDING
Curious features of barnacle growth must be mentioned here
rather than later as they affect the description given above. When
growing in places where plenty of space is available barnacles are
384 R. BASSINDALE
usually broad based, conical in shape, and display clearly the
characters of their own species. But when growing in closely
crowded conditions species react differently. Some individuals
retain their characteristic appearance and crowd others out to make
room for their own development. Eiminius doesn’t change much
in crowded conditions. But Balanus and Chthamalus do. Instead
BALANUS ELMINIVS
CHTHAMALUS
Fic. 2. The three common British barnacles in oblique side view with
diagrams illustrating the number and arrangement of the wall plates and the shape
of the opercular opening. ‘The tall form may occur in Balanus or Chthamalus.
of growing as a cone on a broad base, they have room for only a
very small base and grow up into a tall cylindrical shape, sometimes.
THE LOCAL BARNACLES 385.
even expanding so that the upper part is wider than the base. ‘The
height may exceed the diameter five or even ten fold, whereas
usually the diameter is greater than the height. Another feature of
barnacle growth is that the shells may become corroded and rough
so that the individual plates are difficult to make out. ‘This often
happens with crowded specimens and the two peculiarities make
identification difficult.
DISTRIBUTION
The three common species are surprisingly different in their world
distribution. ‘The British marine fauna is peculiar insofar as it
consists to a large extent of animals from northern latitudes which
extend southwards to Britain, of animals from more southerly
latitudes which extend northwards to Britain and only to a small
extent of animals which are really at home in these temperate
regions. Fortunately from the point of view of interest, our three
common barnacles belong one in each category and this is displayed.
quite clearly in their breeding and feeding habits (see below).
Chthamalus stellatus is a warm water species extending from the
Mediterranean northwards to occupy all coasts of Ireland but only
the west coasts of Great Britain. Here it extends from just west of
the Isle of Wight westward to the Lizard and so north to the north
coast of Scotland. Here it dies out on the north east tip of Great.
Britain so that the east coast and the eastern end of the English
Channel is free of this species. This distribution is apparently
produced by the winter temperature conditions (the winter iso-
therms run north and south) and seems to be due to the failure of
the very young barnacles to survive the east coast winter tempera-
tures, since the adults have been shown experimentally to be able
to do so.
In contra-distinction to Chthamalus, Balanus balanotdes is a north
Atlantic arctic or sub-arctic species which extends southwards.
to the French coast and is found on all coasts of the British Isles.
Elminius modestus is a temperate species and is very much at home
in British waters but its history is surprising. Until 1943 it was.
known only from Australia and New Zealand. During the war it
must have arrived alive on ships from the southern hemisphere
and the larve must have settled on the shores near ports. It was.
definitely discovered in 1946 at Chichester, but collections made in
1943 near the Isle of Wight also contained Elminius. By 1948 it
occupied English coasts from Norfolk to Dorset ; in 1950 it occupied
the whole of the English and Welsh coasts. In 1955 it crossed into.
386 R. BASSINDALE
Scotland and in 1957 to Ireland. It was first recorded in the Bristol
Channel at Blue Anchor in January 1948 and is now common.
BREEDING
As might be expected of a warm water species Chihamalus finds
conditions congenial in summer time and breeds from April or May
to September. ‘The cyprids begin to settle in September and con-
tinue to do so into the winter. The very young barnacles are thus
exposed immediately to winter conditions and it is presumably
this that restricts the species to our warmer western coasts.
Balanus balanoides, as befits a northern species, breeds in the winter
period. Mating takes place in November and the eggs are present
in the shell cavity during the winter. The nauplii emerge in
February and March and the cyprids settle in April.
Elminius breeds all the year round. It is a prolific breeder and
may have 12 broods in the year. However it breeds more rapidly
in summer than in winter and successful settlement seems to take
place mainly in the summer. Despite the large number of broods
Elminius does not necessarily produce more larve annually than
other species. It is a small barnacle and produces about 500
eggs per brood. A large Balanus balanoides, although producing
only one brood per annum, may lay 10,000 eggs.
FEEDING RHYTHM
The extensive breeding season of Elminius shows its suitability
for British Waters and gives some indication of the cause of its rapid
spread. But additional evidence on this point has been gained
from studies of the feeding rhythm. Intertidal barnacles normally
comb the water for food by a rapid rhythmic sweep of their append-
ages. If these sweeps are timed while the individuals are sub-
jected to water of different temperatures it becomes apparent
firstly that Elminius has a much more rapid beat, and secondly that
it has a wider temperature tolerance than other (British) species.
Thus it continues to beat at high temperatures after the cold water
Balanus has stopped and at low temperatures after the warm water
Chthamalus has stopped. It is not so well adapted to cold as
Balanus nor to heat as Chthamalus but it has a wider temperature
range than either, a wider optimum range and a more rapid maxi-
mum rate of beat. It will be interesting to see how far north and
south the immigrant Elminius will eventually spread although present
indications suggest that its rate of spread is slowing down.
Erratum : printer’s omission
ZONATION
Although all three species are found between tide marks there is a
substantial difference in the tide level at which they are found.
All species of Chthamalus are found high in the tide zone and our own
species although sometimes found below mid-tide level is most
abundant near high water mark of neap tides but also extends
above this level and even into the splash zone above normal high
tide levels. Balanus balanoides is found lower on the shore and
usually attains its maximum abundance about mid-tide level. It
continued top page 387
IEP RS CTR
2
THE LOCAL BARNACLES 387
normally extends well above this level and may also be found
right down to low water mark or even into the sub-littoral. In the
northern part of its distribution, in arctic regions, the species has
been recorded 30 metres below low water. Elminius, where com-
mon, attains its maximum abundance below mid-tide level but can
be found in smaller numbers high up with Chthamalus and extends
downwards into the sub-littoral where it is becoming common
mixed with our British sub-littoral species, such as Balanus crenatus.
sROWTH RATES AND DURATION OF LIFE
Generally speaking barnacles seem to live for a few years and
achieve most of their growth within 12 months of settlement. Breed-
ing begins when they have achieved some two-thirds or three-
quarters of the size normal to the species and so they often breed
in the first breeding season after settlement. The main growing
season is the summer and little growth takes place in the winter.
This is probably not a temperature effect but is due to the relative
abundance of food. Chthamalus apparently lives for several years
and Elminius for only one or two years. Elminius may, in a good
summer, attain breeding size in 8 or 10 weeks. In the case of
Balanus balanoides the tide level at which it settles has a marked effect
on growth rate and breeding. Below mid-tide level the cyprids
which settle in April will reach a small adult size by November and
will then breed and die. Just above mid-tide level not many will
grow so fast as that (they are not submerged for so long at each
tide and feeding time is therefore reduced) and most of them will
continue growing in their second year and breed in the second
season. But these will usually live on to breed a second time—
and sometimes a third. Higher still growth will be somewhat
slower and breeding may be delayed until the third season. But
these will live on to breed three or more times, attaining an age of
five or more years, and a larger size than individuals lower down
on the shore. It may also be mentioned that as their size in-
creases so does their productivity and a Balanus in its first breeding
may produce a few thousand eggs but later may attain (exception-
ally) to 13,000 eggs.
EXPOSURE
Although the three species have been shown to zone at three
different levels on the shore it is not on all barnacle covered shores
that all three species occur. From what has been said above it is
clear that the east coast of Scotland has only one species (Balanus),
388 R. BASSINDALE
the east coast of England has Balanus and Elminius, the west coast
of Scotland and the Irish coasts have Balanus and Chthamalus, and the
west coasts of England and the coasts of Wales have all three species.
But this is speaking in general geographical terms. If the coasts.
of England and Wales, where all three species are known to occur,
are examined in detail it quickly becomes apparent that open, wave-
washed coasts do not support Elminius, that sheltered coasts do not.
support Chthamalus, and that Balanus may be less abundant than
either in extreme conditions but more abundant than either in
intermediate conditions. Good examples of these effects have
often been recorded but local examples have been defined by Bristol
University students working in the Bristol Channel and at the Dale
Fort Field Centre in Pembrokeshire.
Working in 1956, Mr. D. M. Beard showed that on the exposed.
coasts at Morte Point near Ilfracombe Chihamalus occurred at the
rate of 130 per square inch and that the numbers gradually de-
clined along the Bristol Channel until they died out completely at
Weston. Elminius, on the other hand, was absent from Ilfracombe
but appeared a few miles up the Channel at Heddon’s Mouth.
Then, from an abundance of only 2 per square inch it increased by
Weston to 180 and was still present at Aust at the rate of 30 per
square inch. This illustrates clearly the intolerance of Chihamalus
for estuarine conditions of shelter, mud and reduced salinities, and.
the favourableness of these factors for Elminius.
Balanus used to be common in the lower reaches of the Channel
but is no longer so and only occasional individuals have been
recorded between Heddon’s Mouth and Clevedon. This may be
due to long term changes in the Balanus population since it is known
that the species nearly died out in the Plymouth area in 1949-50.
Thus no data are available from the Bristol Channel on the effect
of shelter on this species. However, counts by classes of students.
during field courses at Dale Fort illustrate the effect of shelter quite
clearly.
The Pembroke coast from Skomer Island to Milford Haven is.
very much exposed and wave washed but the Dale Peninsula
although similarly exposed on one side from West Dale Bay to St.
Ann’s Head, has a partly sheltered coast from St. Ann’s head to.
Dale Point (where each of the three main bays has an exposed and
a sheltered side), and a very sheltered coastline from Dale Point
to the Gann Flats. Counts of barnacles were made down the shore
at selected places from high tide level to low tide level and some of
the results are presented in Fig. 3.
A section on the mainland opposite Skomer Island, examined
in 1955, illustrates the ‘normal’ distribution of Balanus and
THE LOCAL BARNACLES 389
Chthamalus on a fairly exposed coast (A, Fig. 3). Here we see
Chthamalus extending four metres above mid tide level but with its
greatest abundance of six or seven hundred per 100 square cms.
in the region of 1 to 2 metres above. Balanus, on the other hand,
occupies a zone from 2 metres below to 14 metres above M.T.L.
with a similar maximum abundance to that of Chthamalus but at a
level from 0.7 below to 0.3 metres above M.T.L.
Taking now a section on the exposed side of Dale Point, at the
outer edge of Castle Beach Bay (B, Fig. 3) we find Chthamalus
rather similarly distributed but Balanus is more abundant than near
Skomer and extends much lower. In Section A no Elminius
were found, at Castle Beach Bay two individuals were found
but it is obvious that these exposed conditions are not suited to
Elminius. In 1956 and 1957 the main distribution at Castle Beach
Bay was confirmed although a few isolated individuals of both
species were found as high as 34 metres above M.T.L. and no
Elminius were seen.
Very exposed sites at West Dale Bay were only examined in 1956
and 1957 and similar results were obtained. It was noted, however,
that a few Elminius did occur in West Dale—but on the sheltered
side of large boulders, not on the open faces where counts were made.
Interesting counts were made in Watwick Bay (on the partly
sheltered coast) and it was found that in 1956 the exposed side of
the bay (CQ, Fig. 3) gave counts and relative distributions of the
two species similar to those of the exposed localities described above,
while on the sheltered (west) side in both 1955 and 1956 (D & E,
Fig. 3), Chthamalus was very sparse and Balanus occupied most of
the shore including the levels that elsewhere would be occupied
by Chthamalus. LElminius was absent from both places except for
two or three individuals on the exposed side at M.T.L.
Turning now to the sheltered side of Dale Point an interesting
series of observations were made just inside the Point, and at Brig
Stones, and Black Rocks near Dale Village.
In 1955, °56 and ’57, just inside Dale Point the conditions were
intermediate between the exposed and sheltered sides of Watwick
Bay. ‘That is, Balanus was abundant and extensive, Chthamalus
was fairly well represented at its proper level and Elminius was very
sparse (F, Fig. 3). In 1957, a station was examined just a little
further inside the Bay (below the inner end of the Fort) and here,
despite its proximity to the other station, Chthamalus was much less
abundant and Elminius was much more abundant (G, Fig. 3).
Examination of the Brig Stones in 1955, 1956 and 1957 showed
that Chihamalus had practically disappeared, and had been replaced
at the high levels by Balanus. Elminius, on the other hand, was
BASSINDALE
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THE LOCAL BARNACLES 391
becoming common and in fact showed an increasing abundance
during the three year period (H, J & K, Fig. 3).
At Black Rocks, examined in 1956 and 1957, Balanus was still the
most abundant species, Chthamalus was absent in 1956 but present in
1957 and Elminius was not quite so common as at Brig Stones
(Ly Figs 3)).
The general picture of barnacle distribution at Dale in the years
1955 to 1957 is illustrated in Fig. 3 and shows the following main
features :
(1) Most shores around Dale are exposed and have a barnacle
distribution as in A, B and C, Fig. 3, that is, with abundant Chthama-
lus at about high water of neap tides and with Balanus in equal or
greater abundance at and below mid tide level.
(2) Chthamalus diminishes in sheltered water but may persist in
very small numbers—compare A, B and C which are exposed, and
F which is only just inside Dale Point, with all the other sections.
(3) Elminius is not found on exposed shores (except behind
boulders) but appears in sheltered waters (compare A to F with
GtoL). The absence of Elminius from the sheltered side of Wat-
wick Bay is a little surprising but they may appear there in the future
as the species is still increasing in the area (compare H, J and K
which show the abundance at Brig Stones in three successive
years).
(4) The zonation of Balanus shows a gradual rise in level from
exposed to sheltered water. This seems to be due to an invasion of
the upper zone as Chthamalus disappears and to the raising of the
lower limits because of erosion by gravel and boulders at the
lower tide levels.
(5) Balanus was equally abundant on exposed shores in the three
years from 1955 to 1957 but in Dale Bay there was a sharp drop in
numbers between 1956 and 1957 (compare K with H and J:
and also F and G).
The 1958 results, recently to hand, are based on four counts
made by the 1958 Easter Class on the sheltered shores of Dale Bay
between Dale Point and Brig Stones, and they suggest that Balanus
balanoides was still reduced in numbers as in 1957, and that the
distribution of Chthamalus was unchanged. The station at Brig
Stones was not examined but a little distance away on Point Wood
Beach Elminius was not so abundant as at Brig Stones in 1957, and
its numbers below Dale Fort were unchanged.
OTHER SPECIES
There are other, rarer, species of barnacle to be found on British
shores. Of these Balanus perforatus is a large conical (volcano like)
392 R. BASSINDALE
species with dark purple ribs which occurs only in the south west of
Great Britain. It is a warm water species and breeds in summer.
Balanus improvisus is a species characteristically growing in
estuaries and it can tolerate even fresh water. It does not occur at
Dale but in the Bristol Channel it extends near low water mark from
Blue Anchor to Sharpness. Its abundance is variable and it is
only common in some years and in some places—usually in the
Burnham to Portishead area.
Another species of Balanus (B. crenatus) is very common below
low tide mark but does occur on the shore near low water.
Usually, however, any barnacle above low water of ordinary
tides is one of the three described.
393
Pee LOWER LIAS SECTION AT
EANNARD’S GRAVE,
SHEPTON MALLET:
SOMERSET
By D. T. Donovan
HE section in the cutting of the Somerset and Dorset Joint
Railway, about 1 mile south of Shepton Mallet (Charlton
Road) Station, was published by Woodward (1893, p. 86). The
writer recently visited the cutting in order to measure a detailed
lithological section. He is indebted to Mr. W. A. Dowden for his
help.
THE SECTION
The section newly measured lies on the east side of the cutting,
south of the two bridges across the line which lie east of the
Cannard’s Grave Inn. It is shown diagrammatically in Fig. 1.
The Langport Beds or White Lias at the base are seen to a thick-
ness of 7 feet 6 inches, and consist of shales alternating with marly
and compact limestones. The typical White Lias lithology is
hardly developed. At the top is a ten-inch bed of pale, grey marly
limestone penetrated by U-shaped burrows, similar to those found
in the ‘Sun Bed’ at the top of the White Lias at various places
in North Somerset.
The Blue Lias commences with thin limestones and shales con-
taining the usual bivalve fauna of the ‘ pre-Planorbis Beds’. A
fragment of Psiloceras (Caloceras) of early Johnstoni Subzone aspect
was found 5 feet 3 inches above the base, and Psiloceras (Caloceras)
belchert (Buckman ex Simpson) at just above 8 feet. In north-west
Germany this species occurs in beds with Waehneroceras (portlockt
horizon of Spath, 1942).
Alsatites liasicus (d’Orbigny), indicating Laqueus Subzone in
Spath’s scheme, was represented by loose fragments but was not
found in place. An indeterminate Schlotheimia, indicating Angulata
Subzone, was found 15 feet above the base. Schlotheimia aff.
similis Spath, found just above and below the 17 foot level, indicates
1 Lange, 1931, p. 352; Hoffman, 1949, p. 1143; recorded as C. torus
(d’Orbigny). The publication of Lange’s monograph on Psiloceratinae (1941)
showed that the species known to north German authors as C. torus is identical
with C. belcheri.
E
394 D. T. DONOVAN
Feet
— Charmasseiceras sp. ind.
20
—Metophioceras sp:ind., Charmasseiceras sp. ind.
—Schlotheimia angulata (Schlotheim), S. similis Spath
=e Schlotheimia aff. similis Spath
eS Schlotheimia sp. ind.
Alsatites liasicus(d’Orb) - not in place
Not exposed
—Psiloceras (Caloceras) belcheri (Simpson)
: == —Psiloceras (Caloceras) sp. ind.
ea } Not exposed
re)
| fLangport Beds
5
aa ke
Fic. 1. Section through the upper part of the Langport Beds and the Blue
Lias in railway cutting east of Cannard’s Grave Inn, Shepton Mallet. Scale:
5 feet to1 inch. A scale of feet is marked on the left-hand side of the section, and
numbered upwards and downwards from zero at the base of the Blue Lias.
LOWER LIAS AT CANNARD’S GRAVE 395
the upper part of the Angulata Subzone, the top of which is marked
by the appearance of Coroniceras (Metophioceras) at 18 feet.
At 17 feet the lithology changes abruptly from thin-bedded and
nodular limestones and shales to massive limestones with very little
shale. Coroniceras (Metophioceras) near the base of these limestones
indicates the Conybeari Subzone, the basal subzone of the Buck-
landi Zone. ‘The only other ammonite found in these beds was
the Schlotheimid Charmasseiceras, affording insufficient evidence
as to whether the massive limestones all belong to the Bucklandi
Zone, or whether the Semicostatum Zone is represented as well.
Gryphea incurva (J. Sowerby) is common in the massive limestones,
and in the lowest few inches (about 17 foot level) there are simple
corals. ‘The limestones are full of fragments of shells and echino-
derms. ‘They are capped by an eighteen-inch bed with a fissile
top, and succeeded by clays which are ill-exposed.
Woodward (1893, p. 86) gives a thickness of 32 feet 9 inches for
the Blue Lias, compared with 24 feet obtained by the writer.
The difference lies in the thickness given for the thin-bedded
limestones and shales of the Angulata and Planorbis Zones. It
is possible that Woodward measured his section in a different part
of the cutting, now obscured, and that the thickness of the series is
variable. :
The clay succeeding the Blue Lias Limestones, recorded by Wood-
ward to a thickness of 30 feet, is not well exposed above the main
section. Fossils may still be obtained from it on a slope a little
further north, immediately south of the more southerly of the two
bridges. ‘The following list of ammonites is based on recent collect-
ing and on specimens in the Geological Survey Museum :
Bifericeras bifer (Quenstedt) (G.S.M. no. 47091).
B. nudicosta (Quen.). (G.S.M. no. 47094).
B. parvum S. S. Buckman (holotype, G.S.M. no. 47093).
B. cf. quadricosta (Quen.) (G.S.M. no. 2896 HBW).
B. wrighti Bovier (G.S.M. no. 23598, identified by the late Dr. L. F.
Spath).
Eoderoceras (?) sp. cf. E. anguiforme (Buckman ex Simpson).
E. sp. ind.
Gemmellaroceras sp.
Oxynoticeras oxynotum (Quen.) (G.S.M. 2900 HBW, Zd3148).
Palaeoechioceras aff. spirale (Trueman & Williams).
P. new spp.
Paracymbites sp. ind.
The fossils were all loose on the surface and no succession could be
obtained. Oxynoticeras and Bifericeras indicate the Bifer (or Oxy-
notum s.s.) Subzone of the Oxynotum Zone. Paleoechioceras
occurs near the boundary between the Oxynotum and Raricos-
tatum Zones; it is recorded in situ only from the Stowell Park
396 D. T. DONOVAN
Borehole (Spath, 1956, p. 151: as Hypechioceras gen. nov.)Gemmel- —
laroceras first appears, in Yorkshire, in the Macdonnelli Subzone
of the Raricostatum Zone.
Woodward (loc. cit.) records about six feet of “‘ dark bluish-grey
mottled limestone (full of Belemnites), pale marly beds, earthy and
iron-shot limestone and clay ’’ above the clays with ammonites.
He places these beds in the Oxynotum Zone, but in view of the
fauna now recorded from the clays, the succeeding limestones are
unlikely to be earlier than the Raricostatum Zone.
There is little doubt, in view of Woodward’s account written
when the sections were fresher, that the Turneri and Obtusum
Zones of the Sinemurian are unrepresented. The succession may
be summarised as follows :
Lithology au Thickness
Limestone, marl & clay 6 ft.
Blue clay with bands of eigaricestatuen fk
grey, earthy limestone. Oxynotum 30 eee.
(non-sequence) tees a
?Semicostatum 24 ft. (up to 32 ft.
Blue Lias limestones Bucklandi g ins. according to
and shales Angulata Woodward)
Planorbis
White Lias — 7 ft. 6 ins. seen.
CONCLUSIONS
The Lower Lias shows rapid lateral variations at Shepton Mallet.
About 500 yards north of the section recorded, about twelve feet
of massive limestones, in beds up to one foot thick with very little
shale, are exposed. Fragments were seen of Coroniceras of types
indicating the Bucklandi and the early Semicostatum Zones.
Immediately south of Charlton Road Station the old quarries
still show more or less inaccessible faces. Woodward (1893, p. 87)
said that the total thickness of the stone beds here was ‘upwards of
50 feet ’.
In the cutting west of the Western Region Station sections have
been published by Moore (1867, pp. 505-6), and by Woodward
and others (Geol. Surv. Vertical Sections, sheet 46, no. 15), with
a summary by Woodward (1893, p. 87). There are discrepancies
between these accounts; that on sheet 46 shows 22 feet of beds
above the White Lias, the top of the section lying at an unde-
termined horizon within the Bucklandi Zone. ‘The thickness,
as well as the lithology of the lower zones, is comparable to that at
Cannard’s Grave, but the massive limestones of the Bucklandi
LOWER LIAS AT CANNARD’S GRAVE 397
Zone are not in evidence. ‘The lithological characters of the Blue
Lias correspond in general to the normal development north of the
Mendips, except that the Saltford Shales, which in the Bristol Avon
valley separate a lower and an upper group of limestones, are not in
evidence. Southwards from the Avon valley the Saltford Shales
become rapidly reduced in thickness (Donovan, 1956, pp. 185,
191, 199). ‘The total thickness of the Blue Lias Limestones at
Cannard’s Grave is less than half that at Saltford Cutting, estimated
at about 64 feet (Donovan, 1956, p. 205).
South-westwards from Shepton Mallet, at Street and in the
Polden Hills, the Blue Lias thickens, as shown by sections recorded
in the last century and summarised by Woodward (1893, pp.
76-85). Very few sections are now exposed, and it is impossible
to determine zonal thicknesses from the old records. At Street
about 20 feet of beds appear to lie entirely in the Planorbis Zone
(Woodward, p. 79), and at Keinton Mandeville there is a similar
thickness (p. 77). At Evercreech Kellaway & Wilson attribute
30 feet of blue limestones with shale partings to the Bucklandi Zone,
the total thickness of the zone being unknown (1941, p. 141). At
Sparkford Hill cutting, north. of Queen Camel, Moore (1867, pp.
262-4) recorded 225 feet of (incomplete) Blue Lias, in predomin-
antly argillaceous facies. ‘The top of the section is not dated as no
fossils were recorded from the top 108 feet.
The clays with small ammonites of the Oxynotum and Rari-
costatum Zones were noted in the banks of the Brue at Hornblotton
Mill by Woodward (op. cit. pp. 84-5) who recorded Am. oxynotus,
Am. trivialis, and Am. Birchit, the latter probably a Bifericeras. They
were also found in a well sinking at Sutton, about two miles to the
north-east (Woodward, p. 85 ; Kellaway and Wilson, 1941, p. 142).
REFERENCES
Donovan, D. T. 1956. ‘The zonal stratigraphy of the Blue Lias
around Keynsham, Somerset. Proc. Geol. Ass. 66, 182-212,
London.
Hoffmann, K. 1949. Zur Palaogeographie des nordwest-
deutschen Lias und Doggers. Erdol und Tektonik in Nordwest-
deutschland, 113-129. Hannover-Celle.
Kellaway, G. A. & Wilson, V. 1941. An Outline of the
Geology of Yeovil, Sherborne and Sparkford Vale. Proc.
Geol. Ass. 52, 131-174. London.
398 D. T. DONOVAN
Lange, W. 1931. Die biostratigraphische Zonen des Lias Alpha
und Vollraths petrographische Leithorizonte. Centralbl. Min.
Abt. B, 7, 349-372. i
1941. Die Ammonitenfauna der Psiloceras-stufe Nord-
deutschlands. Paleontographica 93, Abt. A, 1-192. Stuttgart.
Moore, C. 1867. On abnormal conditions of Secondary deposits
when connected with the Somersetshire and South Wales coal-
basins, and on the age of the Sutton and Southerndown Series.
Quart. Four. Geol. Soc. Lond. 23, 449-568.
Spath, L. F. 1942. The Ammonite Zones of the Lias. Geol.
Mag. 79, 264-268.
1956. The Liassic ammonite faunas of the Stowell Park
Borehole. Bull. Geol. Surv. G.B. 11, 140-164. London.
Woodward, H. B. 1893. ‘The Jurassic Rocks of Britain. 3. The
Lias of England and Wales (Yorkshire excepted). London :
Mem. Geol. Surv. G.B.
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GEOLOGICAL :
President—C. E. LEESE, B.Sc.
Hon. Secretary—R. J. G. SAVAGE, B.Sc., Ph.D., F.L.S.
JUNIOR (ADVISORY COMMITTEE) :
President—J. H. SAVORY
Hon. Secretary—Mrs. R. MILLARD
ORNITHOLOGICAL :
President—C. E. CLOTHIER
Hon. Secretary—S. M. TAYLOR, B.Sc., S.I.Mech.E.
OTHER MEMBERS OF COUNCIL:
Miss A. BENNETT, B.Sc. Miss M. D. HILEY
P. F. BIRD, B.Sc. H. E. HINTON, B.Sc., Ph.D., Sc.D,
Miss I. F. GRAVESTOCK J. A. KITCHING, O.B.E., Sc.D.
Miss C. GROVES W. F. VERNON
Ex-officio the Professors of
BoTANny, GEOLOGY and ZooLoGcy at the UNIvERsITyY OF BRISTOL
A—Associate Member.
a QO 8 BAN
401
MEMBERS
AT APRIL I5TH, 1959
who are entitled to the respective privileges of the Society
C—Country Member. H—Honorary Member,
L—Compounded for Annual Subscription.
* Have contributed Papers to the Proceedings.
The addresses of Junior Members may be had from the Hon. Secretary of the
Junior Section.
ANSE 0 Ee
Adams, A. W., M.B., M.S.,
F.R.C.S.
Adams, Mrs. A. W., M.B.,
Ch.B.
ioe sg CS A |
Pigamass ie Pes Bisc./:.....-.
Adams, Mrs. R. P., M.C.S.P.
Addison, D., A.R.I.C.S. ..
Alipbanegs iG, vis se. ee
Pultband. I. wn. ce ee
Allane Dele MA. 2.0.65.
Andrews, Mrs. M. L., M.Sc.
Angles, R., A.M.I.Mech.E.,
A.F.R.Ae.S.
CAVEMEOY H. Syo nie. eG wk ks
PRU CI IER CN a ciche o/s «Sie see
acone hs Wa oe. al ae
Bacon: Mrs. POM 5... ....
Badock, Miss E. J., M.A.....
Bakers Pa eel sec eee bs
Balch: Miss P. M.....1.....
Baldwin, IOP: i.e. ee
Bambridge, Mrs. M.........
Barmmettao, E.G...) 1. 3s
Barnett, Mrs. S. H. G.
Bashford, Mis.,G.I. ......
*Bassindale, Ri; M.Sc. ......
Bassindale, Mrs. R. ........
131 TA) Oe
Beagley, Mrs. H. M.........
Bell Ch) FRE... 5s.
Bennett, Miss A. E., B.Sc.
Bennett, Miss-h. B. ........
Betts Miss J. M.......5..
2 Channels Hill, Westbury-on-Trym, Bristol.
Rodney House, Clifton Down Road, Clifton,
Bristol, 8.
Do.
16 Cambridge Crescent, Westbury-on-Trym,
Bristol.
9g Elmgrove Road, Cotham, Bristol, 6.
Do.
60 Downs Cote Drive, Westbury-on-Trym,
Bristol.
8 Clarence Road, Kingswood, Bristol, 5.
Do.
7 Coombe Bridge Avenue, Stoke Bishop,
Bristol, 9.
167 Bishop Road, Bishopston, Bristol, 7.
30 Brendon Avenue, Weston-super-Mare,
Somerset.
22 Provident Place, Bridgwater, Somerset.
26 Hoveland Lane, Taunton, Somerset.
Honeysuckle House, Church Street, Blagdon,
Nr. Bristol.
Do.
The Oak, Sneyd Park, Bristol, 9.
3 St. Helena Road, Westbury Park, Bristol, 6.
580 Wells Road, Knowle, Bristol, 4.
1 West Mall, Clifton, Bristol, 8.
286 Canford Lane, Westbury-on-Trym,
Bristol.
2 The Avenue, Sneyd Park, Bristol, 9.
Do.
Molland, Uplands Road, Saltford, Nr. Bristol.
3 Berkeley Crescent, Clifton, Bristol, 8.
3 Rysdale Road, Westbury-on-Trym, Bristol.
115 Reedley Road, Stoke Bishop, Bristol, 9..
209 Stoke Lane, Westbury-on-Trym, Bristol.
oO.
Steppings, Bay Road, Ladye Bay, Clevedon,,
Somerset.
39 Holmes Grove, Henleaze, Bristol.
23 Harcourt Road, Redland, Bristol, 6.
37 Royal York Crescent, Clifton, Bristol, 8.
Royal School of Industry for the Blind,
Henleaze Road, Westbury-on-Trym,
Bristol.
Manor Hall, Clifton, Bristol, 8.
402
a
Q
A.
MEMBERS
Betty, aisss: My eoi5., seen cae 24 Riverleaze, Sea Mills Park, Bristol.
Biddle; Wyo" ies Gee oe 7 Brookleaze, Sea Mills, Bristol.
Bielby, Gv. 98.96. es nee Little Down Hall, Wembdon, Bridgwater,
Somerset.
Bigg, Miss BoM. 7.422 cede 22 Sion Hill, Clifton, Bristol, 8.
Billett.cA. Eo Os ee oe eee Hardy Lane, Tockington, Nr. Bristol.
Bing, Miss B. I., M.B., B.S... Links House, Uphill, Weston-super-Mare,
Somerset.
Bineley; Jab: liars keane. & 26 Beechwood Avenue, Hanham, Bristol.
Bird, P.-F:. BiScs sic eae: City Museum, Queen’s Road, Clifton,
Bristol, 8.
Blair-Brown, Miss P. M. .... 13 Lansdown Place, Clifton, Bristol, 8.
Blake; Miss-E. 5.2. se alee 45, Royal York Cresent, Clifton, Bristol, 8.
*Blathwayt, C. S. H., M.A., Amalfi, 27 South Road, Weston-super-Mare,
F.R.E.S. Somerset.
Bine es Virs cM eee The Oaks, Chew Stoke, Nr. Bristol.
®Boleyadvirs; |G. Mise eae Willow Cottage, Dundry, Nr. Bristol.
Bowen, Miss M., B.Sc....... Tudor Cottage, Redland Hill, Bristol 6.
Bowens MissvAv 02s hcaeeen Do.
Box Wiiss Ne ches. ss ten eee 96 Wells Road, Bath, Somerset.
EBOY Ci ibdag iss 2 iiscckspoude o/s ete New Grounds, Slimbridge, Glos.
Bradshaw, R., M.Sc., F.G.S. 13a Maurice Road, Bristol, 6.
Brannon, Miss F. H..... 2s Gordano, Cambridge Road, Clevedon, Som.
Bridges @oliGvAr ws eee Glen Corse, 14 Ridgeway Road, Long
Ashton, Nr. Bristol.
Bridge, Muss Mi Es vce Do.
aya ed gh Can © eters een eee tars. be 73 Bryants Hill, St. George, Bristol, 5.
Bright. Mrs. Bi. Gis:. e.c ae Do.
Bristol Central Library...... College Green, Bristol, 1.
Bristow,: Ge. Mii 2 caf) eee: c/o Hydraulic Branch, Ministry of Works,
Private Bag, Nairobi, Kenya.
Brooke, By dg .thes <6 ree oes Ambrea, Staunton Lane, Whitchurch,
Bristol, 4.
Browar, Miasss@. en se St. Teresa’s Guest House, Corston, Bath
Browns D.'G.; BiSc? case eee Della Pace, Monkton Combe, Bath, Som.
BromtcG. Ayy4acol- aac See 32 Wellington Road, Kingswood, Bristol.
Bruton, We ible acces ee ae oo Little Oak, Weston Road, Failand, Nr.
Bristol.
Bryant, Miss BvG..) 2 gee 319 Whitehall Road, Bristol, 5.
Bunce, Mrs. D. E., B.Sc. .... Coombe Lea, Nailsea, Nr. Bristol.
Bury Ee.) | eke, aa eae eee Ellfield, Wotton-under-Edge, Glos.
Bussell; Miss 1. Mio... eu The Bungalow, Leigh Woods, Bristol, 8.
BuxtonmiGiGe ick ace are 2 Somerset Road, Knowle, Bristol, 4.
Buxton Mirs'Gs Ce aes). diane Do.
Cameron, MissI.L......... 44. Kellaway Avenue, Bristol, 6.
Campbell, A. H., B.Sc., Ph.D. Glaxo Laboratories Ltd., Sefton Park, Stoke
Poges, Bucks.
Campbell, A. M. G., M.A., 79 Pembroke Road, Clifton, Bristol, 8.
D.M., M.R.C.P.
Campbell, Mrs. A. M.G. .. Do.
Campbell aD iGas. Se 27 Redland Hill, Bristol, 6.
Campbell vl. secs 10 rays eee 32 Gore Road, Ashton Gate, Bristol, 3.
Cannings, Mrs. D. A. ...... 9 Petherton Gardens, Whitchurch, Bristol, 4.
Carlen Ss gles ek. is ee
*Carlton, Miss L., M.A. .... Corner Cottage, Downside, Backwell, Nr.
Bristol.
Carpenter, Revd. B. L., M.A. The Presbytery, Kingsweston Lane, Law-
rence Weston, Bristol.
@arpenter) Misses exaust 92 Kennington Avenue, Bishopston, Bristol 7
2S
MEMBERS 403
Carwyvissi<. M: ........ 144 Sefton Park Road, Ashley Down,
Bristol, 7.
Castle, M. P. K.,S.R.N. .. 34 Lilymead Avenue, Knowle, Bristol, 4.
@avwiley, Miss P. A. -........ Manor Hall, Clifton, Bristol, 8.
Chadwick, Mrs. E. I. G...... 6 Goldney Avenue, Clifton, Bristol, 8.
Chadwick. J. W.......-.. Do.
Chaitlencvers Mi. J. .......... 616 Filton Avenue, Filton, Bristol.
@hatterton;, Miss B. ........ 19 Richmond Terrace, Clifton, Bristol, 8.
Chatterton, Miss H. A. .... 16 Quarry Rock Gardens, Claverton Down,
Bath, Somerset.
ChilcotieMirs. J. -........: 21 Upper Cranbrook Road, Redland,
Bristol, 6.
Clank Miss C. Re... ee. 12 Church Avenue, Warmley, Nr. Bristol.
@lark;’Miss M..M. ........ Do.
*Clark, R. B., B.Sc., Ph.D. .. Department of Zoology, The University,
Bristol, 8.
ClariveMing. KR. Be ........e. Do.
Clark, R. J., B.Sc., M.I. Biol. 19 Orchard Rise, Olveston Park, Nr. Bristol
Clave 5: MeL, Ph.D. ...... Merlin, Cadbury Camp, Clapton-in-
Gordano, Nr. Bristol.
Cleve AG. B.Sc. ....'.... 8 Cavendish Road, Westbury-on-Trym,
Bristol.
@lement, Mrs. FE. S......... Trenance, Lyndhurst Road, Midsomer
Norton, Nr. Bath, Somerset.
* Clement, Miss G. G......... Do.
@lements.Fs GS... es Longmead, 149 Queen’s Road, Bishops-
worth, Bristol, 3.
@litherow, GiS. 5.5... 265 7 Westfield Park, Redland, Bristol, 6.
Glotiniers GE ec a 5 leks Fylde, Weston Road, Long Ashton, Nr.
Bristol.
Clough; Miss A: M.\.:...... 7 Fallodon Way, Westbury-on-Trym, Bristol.
Collins; Miss D. N. ........ 40 Fernbank Road, Redland, Bristol, 6.
Collins, Miss M. A. ........ 24 Parkfield Drive, Taunton, Somerset.
Colthurst, Mrs.M. L....... Stonecrop, Wembdon Hill, Bridgwater,
Somerset.
Golthurst)W. Dis. . oo. es Do.
@onstance; MJ... eee. 16 York Avenue, Ashley Down, Bristol, 7.
Cook; MISS VV. oo. 15 St. Helena Road, Westbury Park,
Bristol, 6.
@ooke, Mis. Ih: Gz... ss... 47 Station Road, Shirehampton, Bristol.
Wooke Pah e «ses sched seat oes Do.
Cooper, Miss B. K. D....... Willowes, 108 Falcondale Road, Westbury-
on-Trym, Bristol.
Corbett, Miss C. L., M.B., Hillcrest, 1 Falcondale Road, Westbury-
Ch.B. on-Trym, Bristol.
Cowie, J. W., B.Sc., Ph.D... Department of Geology, The University,
Bristol, 8.
Cowley, J.. M.A., F.R.E.S. .. Holywell House, Edington, Bridgwater,
Somerset.
Cowlishaw, Miss I.O. M. .. 12 Clyde Road, Redland, Bristol, 6.
@ramp, Miss J. M. ........ 1 Oakwood Road, Westbury-on-Trym,
Bristol.
Crampton, MissD. M. .... The Chestnuts, Norton Malreward, Pens-
ford, Nr. Bristol.
@rocker, Vie Gree oe ee ek The Lawns, Beckspool Road, Hambrook,
Nr. Bristol.
@roome;, Miss\M............. 1 Redfield Road, Patchway, Bristol.
@routtwelly' Gi Wi... ev: Old Ford House, Frome, Somerset.
CullemWreA CG. 2.5. Sei). Lark Rise, Church Road, Hanham, Bristol.
@ullen, Mis. D. A. CO... 2... Do.
404 MEMBERS
C.
mo
CGulverwell, R.OWe . Jone aoe Crosskeys, Horse Street, Chipping Sodbury,
Nr. Bristol
(Chammanntizs (Cs HELS ho aes anes Triscombe, 208 Stoke Lane, Westbury-on-
Trym, Bristol.
CGumimins; Mirs. ‘C. Te oc. Do.
@urtis i. FS BSc. ea aceees 29 Wimbledon Road, Westbury Park,
Bristol, 6.
*Curtis, M. L. K., B.Sc., Ph.D., The Stock House, Berkeley, Glos.
F.G.S.
Dalby, Mrs; B: AVES yeese). sae Grange Fell, Leigh Woods, Bristol, 8.
Dalziel GonC. eo eerie ce 42 Rousham Road, Eastville, Bristol, 5.
Davey, MissiPsiJ.sseeeee. oh 709 Wells Road, Knowle, Bristol, 4.
DavidsomeV ns: acer neaee 568 Bath Road, Saltford, Nr. Bristol.
Davie, J H., B.Sc., Ph.D., Clifton College, Clifton, Bristol, 8.
F.L.S
Davies , Miss | DE Re As es 54 Wellington Walk, Westbury-on-Trym,
Bristol.
Davies Uldt.cthielss hustss, pee teee Crestview Court West, Morris Plains, New
Jersey, U.S.A.
*Davis, H. H., F.Z.S., West Park, Cadbury Camp Lane, Clapton-
M.B.O.U. in-Gordano, Nr. Bristol.
Dawis, Mrs, Hi. Hs J.P. ces Do.
Day cbt b dai \eutodite. ats tse 28 Rugby Road, Brislington, Bristol, 4.
ay srN ei Absence hopes che See: Windways, Greenhill Road, Sandford, Nr.
Bristol.
Delong, Mass VieA tinny e ce 237 Luckwell Road, Bedminster, Bristol, 3.
Dennison, V. D., B.Sc. 12 Newlyn Avenue, Stoke Bishop, Bristol, 9.
(Econ.)
Dennison, WMirs) Vile. ese Do.
Devonshire, A. F., M.A., Department of Physics, The University,
Ph.D. Bristol, 8.
Diendonne, Miss E. ........ 51 Summerhill Road, St. George, Bristol, 5.
*Donovan, D. T., B.Sc., Ph.D., Brewery House, South Stoke, Bath, Som.
F.G.S.
DuddeniGHEe os. eee 26 Rousham Road, Eastville, Bristol, 5.
Duddén, Mrs; G. Hi. .5 358. Do.
Duddridge, Miss E., B.Sc. .. 59 Kellaway Avenue, Bristol, 6.
Dunnrclitt, Fe MeAG aie 10 Effingham Road, St. Andrews, Bristol, 6.
Dunning, Mrs. L. M. ...... 20 Glenwood Road, Henleaze, Bristol.
Batoughy mAs ieee ae. 116 Newbridge Road, St. Anne’s Park,
Bristol, 4.
Eatough, Mrs! Aj ee Do.
Eddolls, K. E. K., S.R.N., 35 Leighton Road, Southville, Bristol, 3.
Q.N.
Edmonds, FH. ©. (2a) .e The Grange, Goring-on-Thames, Berks.
dithott, Vins: VWoUEe eee. 8 Burghley Road, St. Andrew’s Park,
Bristol, 6.
Englangs WU Aseeciae knee, 54 Chandos Road, Keynsham, Nr. Bristol.
England, Mrs. E. O.........
Emelish, MisscesuMi. oo ah Stud oe Felton, Nr. Bristol.
Bvaris, pt Wia... hoes» ocnceie es: 46 Horfield Road, St. Michael’s, Bristol, 2.
Evans) Miss View eee ane Pentwyn, Pentyrch, Cardiff.
Evens?) ED BSe." voekeak: 96 Hampton Road, Redland, Bristol, 6.
Evers alle Wicks. duce Cee 20 Saltwell Avenue, Whitchurch, Bristol, 4.
Falk, Mirs.sMij IM. cae: 7 Sion Hill, Clifton, Bristol, 8.
Harmer. iVliss Pvp sneer cise Capri, Gardens Road, Clevedon, Somerset.
Farmer, Miss P. E., B.Sc. .. 44 College Road, Clifton, Bristol, 8.
Som
MEMBERS 405
Pavel. Miss A. C........... The Manor House, Shipham, Winscombe,
Somerset.
Fear, A. C. K., B.Sc., Stonyfield, Lodway, Pill, Nr. Bristol.
Findlay, D.C., McA. ...... 12 Welland Road, Keynsham, Nr. Bristol.
Fleetham, Miss M. W....... 8a Redland Park, Redland, Bristol 6.
Fleure, Miss E., M.A. ...... Vyvyan House, Clifton Park, Clifton,
Bristol, 8.
Bloom iwhiss D. KK... 2... 0... 10 Radley Road, Fishponds, Bristol, 5.
LEICGIS, 1a) 00) ar rarer 5 Dene Road, Whitchurch, Bristol.
HiookwIvirs. Ti. F..... 6c. es Do.
PO GIMEte Wises. 3 ices ee os 70 Hudds Vale Road, St. George, Bristol, 5.
Blooks Mis; Hi. W. ........ Do.
Biook,, Wirs, Mi... 2... 6s. Quietways, 103 Bath Road, Willsbridge
Nr. Bristol.
Flower, MissI. M. ........ 51 High Street, Winterbourne, Nr. Bristol.
elev Cia IN. le. ons coals 5s 11 Kathdene Gardens, Ashley Down,
Bristol, 7.
Botey, Wirs. C.J N........- Do.
Bards Wit, Bsc, .....8.... Department of Geology, The University,
Bristol, 8.
JEGIG!. | ea) 5 Gane ae ae aaa ae 8 Norton Road, Knowle, Bristol, 4.
Mono vine: pi EL. c.f ees Do.
Forrest, G7, M.A......... 43 Canynge Road, Clifton, Bristol, 8.
EOS eis 8D bal 14 Cherington Road, Henleaze, Bristol.
Roster, Mirs, 1D. Re ........ Do.
Poster, virs, Det... 66. ce. 4 West End, Street, Somerset.
Faster, Mrs; M.iG. ........ Pentire, 64 Kings Drive, Bishopston, Bristol, 7.
Hower, GeIN., PhD. oo... 13 Westaway Park, Yatton, Near Bristol.
Fowler, Mrs. G. N., M.A. .. Do.
Fraymouth, Miss J. E., M.Sc., 24 St. Michael’s Park, Bristol, 2.
Ph.D.
ROSS VVE. De bc be Sa eks 32 Oakwood Road, Henleaze, Bristol.
“CAST (8 a ea ag 59 Air Balloon Road, St. George, Bristol, 5.
Fulford, Miss D. M.:....... 55 Waverley Road, Redland, Bristol, 6.
Gardarsson; Ay. 2s... 2... 17a Trelawney Road, Cotham, Bristol, 6.
Camlicle MGW il. os cs og 147 Melrose Avenue, Yate, Nr. Bristol.
Gazzard, Miss K. E.....'...’. 19 Redfield Road, Patchway, Nr. Bristol.
Koay) Wir Nain < isis cc arn ctes 28 Rockside Drive, Westbury-on-Trym,
Bristol.
Gibb, Miss M. E., M.A. .... 16 Woodstock Road, Redland, Bristol, 6.
Gibling; RR: J., M.A......... 17 Bourne Close, Winterbourne, Nr. Bristol.
Gorvett, H., B.Sc., Ph.D..... Zoology Dept., Imperial College, London,
S.W.7.
(SOIT | Ls os ar rr 12 West Dene, Westbury-on-Trym, Bristol.
Granam iiss Co... 8 Ashgrove Road, Redland, Bristol, 6.
Granger, Mrs. A. D......... 16 Eastwood Road, St. Anne’s Park, Bristol 4
Gravestock, Miss I. F., B.A. 7 Leigh Road, Clifton, Bristol, 8.
Grimes: IN. Ws B.Sc. ...... 19 Fremantle Square, Cotham, Bristol, 6.
Groves, Miss Co.3 066... 8. 21 Bayswater Avenue, Redland, Bristol, 6.
Grundy, iss ME. ...... 46 Burley Crest, Downend, Bristol.
Habgood, Miss M. E. ...... 9g Burlington Road, Redland, Bristol, 6.
ase, Mass J. EB. 2... 5... 10 Royal York Crescent, Clifton, Bristol, 8.
Pamblett, D. Ri\ 6 6... 3. All Winds, Highfield, Wick, Nr. Bristol.
amauiton, G. Ho)... ss. 504a Gloucester Road, Bristol, 7
Hamilton, R. G., M.A. .... Tanglewood, West Hill, Wraxall, Nr. Bristol.
Hamlin, Revd. A. G., B.A... 85 Cromwell Road, St. Andrew’s Park,
Bristol, 6.
Hamlyn, Miss M. E., B.Sc... Ross-Lyn, Middleway Lane, Broadoak Hill,
Dundry, Bristol.
406 MEMBERS
ammacott jt. R.. cyst Roseway, West End, Nailsea, Nr. Bristol.
Harding, Miss J. M.D. .... 10 Royal York Crescent, Clifton, Bristol.
Harding, Miss W.G. ...... Chester Cottage, 11 Ivywell Road, Sneyd
Park, Bristol, 9.
Mardy.) Mast, Ro; 4 2 ome The Beeches, 12 Stoke Park Road, Bristol, 9.
Harris,’ Miss Ei. 7AGx se... eee 487 Fishponds Road, Bristol.
Harris, Prof. J. E., M.A., 6 Clifton Hill, Clifton, Bristol, 8.
Ph.D. ER.S.
Harris, Miss M.I........... Robin Hill, 112 Coombe Lane, Westbury-
on-Trym, Bristol.
Farris; Missi... Am Geta 20 Cornwallis Crescent, Clifton, Bristol, 8.
C. Hartill, G. G., M.R.C.S., Stone House, High Street, Chipping Sod-
L.R.C.P bury, Nr. Bristol.
Haskins, B. i ALAN 30 Townsend, Chew Stoke, Nr. Bristol.
Hawker, Miss L. E., D.Sc., 32 Barley Croft, Westbury-on-Trym, Bristol.
Ph.D.
Mawker (MS. .o6 eo. te ete 2 East Croft, Westbury-on-Trym, Bristol.
C. Hebblethwaite, Miss C. .... 4 Hallam Road, Clevedon, Somerset.
Hembrough, Miss E. M. .. Oakhurst, London Road, Warmley, Kings-
wood, Bristol.
HendersonsR W. Ji... hel Tenby Villa, 8, Oldfield Place, Hotwells,
Bristol, 8.
Heslop, I. R. P., M.A., Belfield, Poplar Road, Burnham-on-Sea,
F-R-E;S. Somerset.
C. Hewlett, Miss C.M.E.,M.Sc. 4 Cavendish Crescent, Bath, Somerset.
Hickman, Mrs. L. M. ...... 38 Downleaze, Stoke Bishop, Bristol, 9.
G.— higeens,, Miss iB...) necks 4. Cavendish Crescent, Bath, Somerset.
Hiley: iiss (MLD in. ne a al 35 Beaufort Road, Clifton, Bristol, 8.
Pill irs. De Re Wen ee Elmhurst, 3 Charlton Lane, Brentry, Bristol.
Hill, Miss L. M., B.A. 15 Clare Avenue, Bishopston, Bristol, 7.
Hinton, loleeldu, B. Sc., Ph. D., Department of Zoology, The University,
Sc.D. Bristol, 8.
Piinton) Mirsi Je Sen. no acct 4 Oakfield Road, Clifton, Bristol, 8.
HobbseG. Riis BoA.) nadine ate Webbs Heath Farm, Warmley, Bristol.
Hobbs) Mirs.cCoR: > sean Do.
Hockey... HiaGy 26498 ck ae Greystones, 20 Ham Lane, Stapleton, Bristol.
Hockey; IMirs:. (Gc Pecks Do.
Iodges, Miss Mi... 5. 4....Gke 89 Falcondale Road, Westbury-on-Trym,
Bristol.
Hogg) WEL M.Sc... 0.5.8 5 Hill Burn, Westbury-on-Trym, Bristol.
: Do.
Holgate, Miss M. Bl M.A... Chestnut Farm (Caravan), Long Ashton,
Nr. Bristol.
A... weolmes, WA eres ee sie 4 Hyland Grove, Westbury-on-Trym, Bristol
C2. lopkins, W. foie eh ace g Churchill Road, Wells, Somerset.
Horn, Miss E. J.. M.A. .... 12 Salisbury Road, Redland, Bristol, 6.
Howard, H. F., M.A. ...... 41 Thingwall Park, Fishponds, Bristol.
Howard, R. W., M.R.C.V. S. 75, Wellsway, Keynsham, Nr. Bristol.
Howell, 1). ia See re 4 Begbrook Park, Frenchay, Bristol,
Hughes, | | a eee gtr Senrire g Buckingham Vale, Clifton, Bristol 8.
GC... ThulbertuRs Cencvsed eee a’, No Name, Easter Compton, Nr. Bristol.
Co Vetulibent.) irs IR WC.& cee. Do.
G. ~uniphries, Mrs..€. Mio...) dhe Paddocks, Chew Stoke, Nr. Bristol.
C.) > Aut Pace, BISC.4.8.c2.0e teres 19 Victoria Road, Frome, Somerset.
Putty wMiss ME. Wo ee ieee Hillcrest, 1 Falcondale Road, Westbury-on-
Trym, Bristol.
C. Isaac, D.H.,M.D.,M.R.C.P. 1 South Road, Taunton, Somerset.
Jago, Miss I. M., B.Sc....... 43 Downleaze, Stoke Bishop, Bristol, 9.
£2
James, D.
eeceeree ee ee ee we ow
Janaesi Miss Vi A...........
Heleva IMEISSIR SS we ees
Jenkin, Miss P. M., M.A.,
D.Sc.
slemkimastyiiss' ID. R. 2.2.2...
Jenkins, F. G., M.B., Ch.B...
Jenkins, P. D.
jobs, Wiss ©z M...........
Jolly G. F., M.A., M.B.,
B. Ch., M.R.C.S.,
EL: R.C.P.
MOMMIES A isis oe es
eee ee ee ee eo
*Kearns, Prof. H. G. H..,
O.B.E., B.Sc., Ph.D.,
F.R.ES.
C. *Kellaway, G. A., B.Sc.,
C.
C.
C.
F.G.S.
Kelting, E. L.,'O.B.E., J.P.,
M. Inst. C.E.
Kemp, J..H., B:A.
ose ee eee
“Kendall, ©..D:, M.A. ...—.
Kenney, D. J.,A.M.I.Mech.E.,
ZA ROAGSS.
Kenneys Mrs) Dy Je...
Gin a) ese ie © sea Soares os, 3
| Sono ets 7D ye lr a
Kitching, J. A., O.B.E.,
MAL sc.) Ph.D.
Ihance, H.R. Hi.
eee eee ee ee
Lansdowne, W.H.H......:
*Ieach, A. C., T.D., M.A.
miteese, C.. i., B.Sc.
tego, Muiss°C. Mi... 2...
Lipo us De en ee
Lewis, Miss E. K., B.A.
Lewisohn, J. A.
Lewisohn, Mrs. J. A.
Lewton, J. S.
Ieiftony Miss, DD: M. ........
DallicowMrss Cy We os.
Eenllico, Miss J. Ws. .:.......
Linton, Mrs. E. L.
Ihippiatt, Miss E.M. ......
kong, Miss. B.C. ........
eee eee eo
MEMBERS 407
3 Oak Road, Horfield, Bristol, 7.
The Mill House, Woollard, Pensford, Nr.
Bristol.
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Department of Zoology, The University,
Bristol, 8.
14 Lancashire Road, Bishopston, Bristol, 7.
51 Redcliff Hill, Bristol 1.
69 Cassell Road, Fishponds, Bristol.
2 Gloucester Row, Clifton, Bristol, 8.
Bristol General Hospital, Guinea Street,
Bristol, 1.
18 Buckingham Gardens, Downend, Bristol.
Research Station, Long Ashton, Nr. Bristol.
H.M. Geological Survey and Museum,
South Kensington, London, S.W.7.
Windown, Wembdon, Bridgwater, Som.
St. Thomas More’s, Stratton-on-the Fosse,
Nr. Bath, Somerset.
Wills Hall, Stoke Bishop, Bristol., 9.
53 St. Michael’s Hill, Bristol, 2.
Do.
Mayfield, Uplands
Bristol.
10 Broadway, Saltford, Nr. Bristol.
8 Old Sneed Park, Stoke Bishop, Bristol, 9.
Road, Saltford, Nr.
Swanington, 8 Atlantic Road South, Weston-
super-Mare, Somerset.
1 Napier Road, Redland, Bristol, 6.
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32 Haverstock Road, Knowle, Bristol, 4.
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g Cornwallis Crescent, Clifton, Bristol, 8.
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Do
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Bristol.
10 St. Alban’s Road, Westbury Park,
Bristol, 6.
37b Downleaze, Stoke Bishop, Bristol, 9.
Do.
The Cottage, Stanton Drew, Nr. Bristol.
Amberleigh, Rudgeway, Nr. Bristol.
g Osborne Road, Clifton, Bristol, 8.
C. *Loupekine, I. S., B.Sc., Ph.D., Royal Technical College of East Africa,
C.
C.
C.
F.G.S.
ME Ov Ellp Rf oss eee
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lkow, Miss KM... 0.0.6...
Private Bag, Nairobi, Kenya.
51 Mildred Avenue, Harlington, Hayes,
Middx.
Forsythia Cottage, Blagdon, Nr. Bristol.
Do.
—>
Ms
408 MEMBERS
CG. laismores NE oe ree see 28 First Avenue, Highfields, Dursley, Glos,
ihuxtord, ‘Wirs, "Mi ies 15 Sunnyside, Stoke Bishop, Bristol, 9.
Mages: Miss FoR. One see 57 Barton Road, St. Philips,’ Bristol, 2. .
Marsden, A., M.B.E., 161 Bishop Road, Bishopston, Bristol, 7.
M.Sc., Ph.D., F:R1C;
Marsden, MrsAl vit accor. Do.
Hf. *Matthews, L. Harrison, M.A., Zoological Society of London, Regent’s
D.Sc., F.R.S. Park, London, N.W.8.
Matthews, R. C., B.Sc. .... Ty Gwyn, St. Margaret’s Lane, West Town,
Nr. Bristol.
Matthews, Mrs. R. C., B.Sc., Do.
M.1.Biol.
Maunder, Miss M. E. ...... 6 Oak Road, Horfield, Bristol, 7.
Maxwell E. 2a 6 Sees 7 Cranbrook Road, Redland, Bristol, 6.
A. McCarthy, Miss SS: ....550. 59 Hillside Avenue, Bitterne Park, South-
ampton.
McNiven, Miss) BaD 82 ae : Lanka, 165 Abbey Road, Westbury-on-
Trym, Bristol.
Mead, Miss C. E., B.A. .... 16 Quadrant West, Fishponds, Bristol.
Meade-King, M. G., B.A. .. 5 Worcester Crescent, Clifton, Bristol, 8.
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iC. - Mernie i. DAG 66 ose es Inglenook Cottage, Alveston Hill, Thorn-
bury, Nr. Bristol.
Messiter, Miss F. E., B.Sc. .. 1 Tyndall’s Park Road, Tyndall’s Park,
Bristol, 8.
Milburne, Mrs: DD. 5.. 2804 Syston Court Cottage, Mangotsfield, Nr.
Bristol.
IN Uae ee ay AC ie Lyndale, Merthyr-Mawr Road, Bridgend,
lam.
Millard, Mrs; E.R. 60s 10 Cambridge Park, Redland, Bristol, 6.
Miller, K. W., B.Sc., M.B., St. Vincent’s, West Town, Nr. Bristol.
Ch.B.
Molton Jiatite ike eee 10 Randall Road, Clifton Wood, Bristol, 8.
Milton,” Mis... 0.4 tet eas Do.
C. Milward, Mrs. M. W....... Bonneval, Station Road, Nailsea, Nr. Bristol.
A. Mint Chel 7G ee ee The Homestead, Burton Row, Brent Knoll,
Highbridge, Somerset.
Moody KO. Es) eth ee 2 Bellevue Terrace, Totterdown, Bristol, 4.
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Cs MNicgore, wMiiss Ieee eee Do.
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Morgan, Mrs. J.. A.T.D. .. 13 Lansdown Place, Clifton, Bristol, 8.
Morris, Virs..P: Mean ae. 103 Passage Road, Westbury-on-Trym,
Bristol.
Minden W., Jie eae 11 Red House Lane, Westbury-on-Trym,
Bristol.
Naldrett, Miss F.M. ...... Braidlea School, Goodeve Road, Sneyd
Park, Bristol, 9.
C’. Nature Conservancy (The) .. 19 Belgrave Square, London, S.W.1.
Co WNaylor,” Muss" Acc) ieee. Grey Hollow, West Harptree, Nr. Bristol.
A, (Neale Wien a ee ae cays gene 70 Trym Side, Sea Mills, Bristol.
Nethercott,.P.J.M.. hecce 44 Upper Cranbrook Road, Redland,
Bristol, 6.
Nettle; Miss: Bi @i) 5. Senses 3 Beaufort Road, Kingswood, Bristol.
Neville, Miss M., B.Sc. .... 7 Belmont Road, St. Andrew’s Park,
Bristol, 6.
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C. “Newsom, Mirs.vAs\Si0;. 2% <2 Do.
ANAS
x ATA A
MEMBERS 409
-Newton, Mrs. H. S., M.B., Wigmore House, Thornbury, Nr. Bristol.
Ch.B
INiplett, @. G. M. .......... 33 Beaufort Road, Clifton, Bristol, 8.
Nighvnealey KR. ........ 20 Hadrian Close, Sea Mills, Bristol.
(Niminies, Ae Bis... ke eee 13 Rylestone Grove, Westbury-on-Trym,
Bristol.
MNonman, Eo k= B.Sc. ...... Highfield Lodge, Wick, Nr. Bristol.
Olney, P. J., B.Sc., F.R.E.S., The Wildfowl Trust, Slimbridge, Glos.
M.I.Biol.
Sine Pee Ae? oo ets Oakfield Lodge, Julian Road, Stoke Bishop,
Bristol, 9.
@emey Vrs, ASP. A. 2.2... Do.
@rmendyl Gils ose oe eee 1 Chapel Hill, Farleigh, Backwell, Nr.
! Bristol.
(ONG Oy Dei On ee 13 Wells Road, Bristol, 4.
@ywens." Mrs. IN. Ma o3...... 10 Radley Road, Fishponds, Bristol.
Palmer, Mars. C.D... 2... Highfield, Sandford Hill, Bridgwater, Som.
Palmer, Miss E. M., M.B.O.U. Do.
Palmer-Smith, Mrs. M. .... 202 Pickersleigh Road, Malvern, Worcs.
altel Tea) Oe oe er Crofters, Blagdon, Nr. Bristol.
JE Se ti 0] VR Stoweylands, Bishop Sutton, Nr. Bristol.
PATSIOWHIA BigeO . e k k e 14 Eastfield Gardens, Weston-super-Mare,
Somerset.
Parsons, Miss F. M......... 13 Vyvyan Terrace, Clifton, Bristol, 8.
Parsons. Miss.S. J... sof. eres 46 Vicarage Road, Southville, Bristol, 3.
Payne; IMirs. EM. ......... Merrywood, West Harptree, Nr. Bristol.
BAVC Gace aC. 1... as 40a Ravenswood Road, Redland, Bristol, 6.
Ray Mee tl eo oys 6 ashe toh ses Compton House, Chew Stoke, Nr. Bristol.
SU REAGlo sal @ ees Pa 5 Hanbury Road, Clifton, Bristol, 8.
*Pearman, J. V., F.R.E.S..... Beechcroft, Upper Icknield Way, Aston
Clinton, Aylesbury, Bucks.
Pegler, As Hes ok. ek se 21 Clift Road, Ashton Gate, Bristol, 3.
Pemberton, Miss J. A. W. .. 14 Cambridge Park, Redland, Bristol, 6.
Perkins;, Mrs, M.M......... 25 Sandy Leaze, Westbury-on-Trym, Bristol.
Berrett, DT 8 ce ces West End Pharmacy, Bridgwater, Somerset.
Perry. Muss iss. oS. 8S 8 High Park, Knowle, Bristol, 4.
Perry, F. C., M.A., F.L.A. .. 38 Kellaway Avenue, Bristol, 6.
Phallapss Ac Be ss. 4c eee ee 11 Downs Park East, Westbury Park,
Bristol, 6.
Phillips, F. Coles, M.A., Department of Geology, The University,
Ph.D., F.G.S. Bristol, 8.
Phillips, Ps P:, B.Sc... 02... The Coppice, 9 Grove Road, Coombe
Dingle, Bristol, 9.
Phillips, Mrs. M.D. H. .... 10 Percival Road, Clifton, Bristol, 8.
Pillans, Miss R. C....... 5. 22 Hanbury Road, Clifton, Bristol, 8.
tere, Miss Mk ss 4 Royal York Villas, Clifton, Brsitol, 8.
PTMAM TG NE he es et 8 20 Tuffley Road, Westbury-on-Trym,
Bristol.
Plaice, Miss C. H. J., B.Sc., 94. Sandringham Road, Brislington,
Ph.D: Bristol, 4.
Te) Eee 0 Bag (einer Do.
Plummer, Hi. W..\.......... 18 Woodstock Avenue, Redland, Bristol, 6.
Poole,-B.W. Gs cc es 22 Rockside Drive, Henleaze, Bristol.
| tOD LEE OT re 77 Baytree Road, Weston-super-Mare, Som.
Boprett, MissB. HY oo...) |. 2 Cotham Road, Bristol, 6.
Potter, Whiss Ko A...) 0. ca Westonbirt School, Tetbury, Glos.
IB@ERER Ni Bie chasse ld oe 12 York Gardens, Clifton, Bristol, 8.
7Poulding, Ri; 0.0. 6..... 10 West Park Road, Downend, Bristol.
410 MEMBERS
Pratt, Miss lies ack sank: 1 Hughenden Road, Clifton, Bristol, 8.
Pratt, W. W., M.R.C.S., 1 Hanham Road, Kingswood, Bristol. |
L.R.C.P.
Priests Es Ge ee i. vertenviee oe 11 Rokeby Avenue, Redland, Bristol, 6.
Prowse, D. C., -» Ch.B., Wigmore House, Thornbury, Nr. Bristol.
M.R.G.S. & bas ue Pi:
Prowse, Miss H. S., M.B., Do.
Ch.B., M.R.C.S., L.R.C.P.
G. Pryce, J: TR sO 15 Fox Avenue, Yate, Nr. Bristol.
Pugsley, Prof. Sir Alfred G., Sycamore Cottage, East MHarptree, Nr.
O.B.E., D.Sc., F.R.S.
Pugsley, Lady
Pullan, J. M., M.A., M.Sc.
Pullan, Mrs. 1. M. O.
Pyke, H. D., M.B. Ch.B., 88 Redland Road, Bristol, 6.
Pyke, Mrs. H. TOP racks Petes: Do.
Bristol.
Do.
Badgers Wood, Brockley, Nr. Bristol.
D
Quick, Mrs. O. E., B.Sc. 129 Stoke Lane, Westbury-on-Trym, Bristol.
Rake Miss B. A., B.Sc.
C.« Reynolds; J. ¥., B-A.,
M.B.O.U.
Research Station, Long Ashton, Nr. Bristol.
Queen’s College, Taunton, Somerset.
Reynolds, Mrs. A. M. ...... Do.
Richards, Miss A. W. ...... 21 Sydenham Hill, Cotham, Bristol, 6.
Richards, Miss°C. Ms 3. 2.5; Do.
Richardsh 7S: Wik eos settee Langley, Swan Lane, Winterbourne, Nr.
Bristol.
Richards, Mrs. S. W., B.A. Do.
Raiddick, Sito. .cciaeioseers 179 Kings Head Lane, Bedminster Down,
Bristol, 3.
Riddick, Mirs.S.Ji0. Sane Do.
Az INOWERtS: BS a este ail donetaeees 6 Braemar Crescent, Filton Park, Bristol, 7.
Roberts, J. T.
Roberts, Miss M. F., B.A.
Robinson, Miss. G., B.Sc.
Roe, Capt. R. G. B., RN. ..
Roe, Mrs. R. G. B.
Rogers, Miss M. H., M.A. ..
coe ee eee
59 Pembroke Road, Clifton, Bristol, 8.
Research Station, Long Ashton, Nr. Bristol.
g Charlcombe Way, Bath, Somerset.
56 Bloomfield Avenue, Bath, Somerset.
Do.
Vyvyan House, Clifton Park, Clifton, Bristol,8.
Room, Ps] 4 as eoiners claire ae Meadowside, Chew Stoke, Nr. Bristol.
Room, Mrs: P. jae. oe oo os Do.
Room, Miss E. M., S.R.N... Do.
® Rose, C.G.I., A.C.A.
Reoseveate, Wo. ... 4.6 eek
10 Whiteladies Road, Clifton, Bristol, 8.
The Orchard House, Hutton, Weston-super-
Mare, Somerset.
Churchill Hall, Stoke Bishop, Bristol, 9.
Wile ks. Bieta 5 Kenneth Road, Brislington, Bristol, 4.
cece tts Do.
25 Tugela Road, Uplands Estate, Bristol, 3.
Keigwin, 97 Druid Stoke Avenue, Stoke
Bishop, Bristol, 9.
Russell, A. H. Pine Croft, Alveston, Nr. Bristol.
Russell, Mrs. A .H., B.Sc. .. Do.
Pee eo ie
Roseweir, J.
Rosling, H. N.
Rosling, Mrs. H. N.
Ross, F. Stenhouse
Rowe, J. F.
eevee ere ere eee ese
eee ee eee
eee eee eee ee eo
Sampson, Miss A. M.
Sandover,; Miss 1.) ).2.).2e0se
H. *Sandwith, Mrs. C. I., F.L.S.
*Savage, R. J. G., B.Sc., Ph.D.,
142 Coronation Road, Southville, Bristol, 3.
11 Elmdale Road, Tyndalls Park, Bristol, 8.
26 Canynge Square, Clifton, Bristol, 8.
Department of Geology, The University,
F.LSS.; EGS, EZ Z.9. istol, 8.
Savory, J. He ee antes 6 edland Road, Redland, Bristol, 6.
Savory, | Vins: wl ty. hoes { Do.
ps
Scadding, Miss M. P. ......
Sacer
Scott, P., M.B.E., D.S.C.,
M.A
Spanos AWE. ....../...
Shaw, Miss D.
coer eee eee ee ee
Slicer, IDG Ole ea
Shearer, Miss O. M.........
Shepherd, Miss J. E. ......
Sita teed s Eis
Shummer,-Virs. HS ........
Sl Gove) oe 8 Cag] ee
Simpson, Scott, M.A., Dr.
rer. nat., F.G.S.
sims 5-P. 1.
Singleton, R. W.
eoce ere ee ee ee we ee
*Skene, Prof. Macgregor,
D.Sc., F.L.S.
Sloane, FP ., B.Sc. ........
Smphesviiss Be B. as... 2...
Smith, D. Munro, M.R.C.S.,
L.R.C.P.
Smith, P. G. Munro
Siig
Smith, Wiss) MOA. Ve... .. 3
Soltausivirss BO KO Vi...
Spiers, D. R., M.B.O.U.,
A. Mem. A.O.U. :
Stanton, Miss D. W.........
Shem ER ores oe cia eos
Stiddard, Miss D. M.
eee eeeee
Stowell, Miss I. E.
Stowell, Miss J. R.
Stunde. W. Ht. B., L.DS. ....
SUUIIZNEES W7AY, IN a
SUUIOLRS LSA UE
Sullivan, Miss J. M.
Suiltvan, Ge 2... 2.668.
Sutherland, I. H............
Sutton, M.
Swaine, Miss A. K., F.R.A.S.
Swanborough, R. E.........
Sweet, G.
Sweet, irs, Gio. ce
Sydenham, W.1.J.....0%..
eee eee ee ee ew wo we ow 8
TAS esc AS a
Wlaylor, Miss A. BE. ........
Waylor, Mrs: A. M. ........
MEMBERS 41]
1 St. Vincent’s Parade, Durdham Down,
Bristol, 6.
Royal Horticultural Society’s Gardens,
Wisley, Ripley, Woking, Surrey.
New Grounds, Slimbridge, Glos.
15 Stockwood Vale, Keynsham, Nr. Bristol.
20 Walsingham Road, St. Andrew’s Park,
Bristol, 6.
Ranalt, Townsend, Almondsbury, Nr.
Bristol.
75 Thornleigh Road, Horfield, Bristol, 7.
54 Wellington Walk, Westbury-on-Trym,
Bristol.
5 Dial Hill Road, Clevedon, Somerset.
Do
Branksome, Beach Road, Kewstoke, Weston-
super-Mare, Somerset.
Department of Geology, The University,
Bristol, 8.
28 Haselburg Grove, Saltford, Nr. Bristol.
18 Kewstoke Road, Stoke Bishop, Bristol, 9.
36 Lawrence Grove, Westbury-on-Trym,
Bristol.
Burwalls, Leigh Woods, Bristol, 8.
14 Neva Road, Weston-super-Mare, Somerset.
220 Badminton Road, Downend, Bristol,
Do.
21 Upper Belmont Road, St. Andrew’s,
Bristol,7.
80 Hampstead Road, Brislington, Bristol, 4.
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South Vine Lodge, Sherborne St. John,
Basingstoke, Hants.
35 Beaufort Road, Clifton, Bristol, 8.
g Charlcombe Way, Bath, Somerset.
28 Rodney Road, Backwell, Nr. Bristol.
157 Speedwell Road, St. George, Bristol 5.
151 Leinster Avenue, Knowle, Bristol, 4.
21 Victoria Square, Clifton, Bristol, 8.
0.
Oldfield, Park Hill, Shirehampton, Bristol.
52 Kingsdown Parade, Cotham, Bristol, 6.
Green Orchard, Compton Greenfield, Easter
Compton, Nr. Bristol.
139 Dovercourt Road, Horfield, Bristol, 7.
The Walnuts, 85 Nicholls Lane, Winter-
bourne, Nr. Bristol
Churchill Hall, Stoke Bishop, Bristol, 9.
14, Woodcroft Avenue, Whitehall, Bristol, 5.
Pisang Cottage, Nailsea, Nr. Bristol.
24 Highfield Avenue, Hanham, Bristol.
40 Cornwallis Crescent, Clifton, Bristol, 8.
Do.
230 Overndale Road, Fishponds, Bristol.
46 Apsley Road, Clifton, Bristol, 8.
16 Cotham Road, Bristol, 6.
1 Northcote Road, Clifton, Bristol, 8.
412 MEMBERS
QO
Taylors ihc vcaty ote ae Harbury, Harbury Road, Westbury-on-
Trym, Bristol.
Taylor, S. M., B.Sc., Glenalan, Station Road, Nailsea, Nr. Bristol.
S.I.Mech.E.
Taylor, MassiS. Mi. 4... eh. Do.
Taylor,Mirs. W..N.2s. 202... 46 Islington Road, Bedminster, Bristol, 3.
Terry, Miss D..G, 2.0.4.1 Beechwood, 52 Rockcliffe Road, Bathwick,
Bath, Somerset.
Metley, Mrs. Tose e.ch es ceteoe: 4 The Avenue, Sneyd Park, Bristol, 9.
ahearle Re Bich cincs deena es 47 Elliston Road, Redland, Bristol, 6.
Mhearle; Mrs aR. Hie. ee Do.
Thornhill Hy A, 2 hee Mae Heddon, Church Lane, Farleigh, Backwell,
Nr. Bristol.
TPAnter ges View cseia ernie coe toe 66 Marshfield Road, Fishponds, Bristol.
Trump, Mrs. A. Goo}. cas. 181 Stoke Lane, Westbury-on-Trym, Bristol.
Trump, MissJ. M. .....>.. Do.
Turner, Miss E. E, A. ...... 10 Clyde Road, Redland, Bristol, 6.
Turner, H. W., M.A., F.G.S. The Cottage, Kensington Place, Clifton,
Bristol, 8.
MBUPMER Soe soe ak eee Redland Hall, Redland Hill, Bristol, 6.
Myrrell-Pitt, irs. J. %.. 3)... First Acre, Courtenay Road, Keynsham,,
Nr. Bristol.
AES] IAs DR! [sep gra Pre Tor Cottage, Chewton Mendip, Nr. Bath,,
Somerset.
Vance, Mrs, RID veces The Post Office, Nailsea, Nr. Bristol.
Vanderplank, Miss J. A..... Y.M.C.A. Hostel, 15 Berkeley Square,
Clifton, Bristol, 8.
Vernon, J. D. R., B.Sc. .... 22 St. David’s Road, Thornbury, Nr. Bristol.
Veron; W.uFisi ages eines Wyngarth, Easter Compton, Nr. Bristol.
Vinnicombe, Miss E. J., Denver, 32 Ridgeway, Long Ashton, Nr.
B.Sc., M.A. Bristol.
Vowles; D. Gio’ oe a see 2 York Avenue, Ashley Down, Bristol, 7.
Wowless. [Fld uacaninuie nes 11 Stanhope Road, Weston-super-Mare,.
Somerset.
Vowles, Miss. P., M.B., 19 Southmead Road, Westbury-on-Trym,.
Ch.B. Bristol.
Weaddicor.MiESE. & 27. oe nce 7 Woodstock Road, Redland, Bristol, 6.
Warmers IMA. ee ite uae Shepperdine House, Thornbury, Nr. Bristol.
Wakefield, Mrs. G. 8. ...... 2 Southwagd Avenue, Coombe Dingle,
Bristol, 9.
Wakefield, Miss I. D. ...... 42 Westbury Lane, Coombe Dingle, Bristol.
Wallington, W.7A.. Ghee. Bregar, Station Road, Nailsea, Nr. Bristol.
Wallington, Miss<]i0. 22. see Do.
*Wallis, F. S., D.Sc., Ph.D., The City Museum, Queen’s Road, Bristol, 8.
F.G.S.
Walsh cMirs-ub crite ign sae Helvellyn, Dark Lane, Backwell, Nr. Bristol.
Walters, Wiss io. an. 2 om 4. Oakwood Avenue, Henleaze, Bristol.
Wareham, Miss C. A. L..... Corscombe, Church Lane, Backwell, Nr.
Bristol.
Warehama, Miss Fie aya etietcs Do.
*Warne, L. G. G., M.Sc., 25 Amherst Road, Manchester, 14.
Ph.D.
Watkins, N. A., M.A., 9 Druid Road, Stoke Bishop, Bristol, 9.
F.R.E.S.
Watters, Miss E. D., M.A. .. The Little House, Frenchay, Bristol.
Watters, Miss M. M., M.A. Do.
Webb, re shee becst ec saree ee Elmside, 43 Old Town, Wotton-under-
Edge, Glos.
i. *Womersley, H., A.L.S.,
MEMBERS 413
men, Weir, Mrs. A, M......%..... Hursley Hill, Whitchurch, Bristol.
Mey vein, G, Me... .- 2. eee Do.
Weir, W. D., A.R.I.C.S 3 Stafford Place, Weston-super-Mare, Som.
| Wem Mars. W.ID... 2.2.5... Do.
—C. *Welch, F.B.A., B.Sc., Ph.D., H.M. Geological Survey and Museum,
F.G.S. South Kensington, London, S.W.7.
BN VelGhe NMG J, vo... ee eee 44 Conygre Road, Filton, Bristol.
Welshman, Miss M. J....... 85 Kingsdown Parade, Bristol, 6.
Wrest, iiss N..L. .....5.... 18 Dennyview Road, Abbots Leigh, Nr.
Bristol.
Westcott, Miss M. V. ...... 20 Linden Road, Redland, Bristol, 6.
Wwiistlemele. I... se... eke 8 Dundonald Road, Redland, Bristol, 6.
Nites il Sis. SC. ...... 2. 44 The Park, Kingswood, Bristol.
Whiting, H. P., D.S.C., 62 Woodstock Road, Redland, Bristol.
M.A., Ph.D.
*Whittard, Prof. W. F., D.Sc., Department of Geology, The University,
Ph.D. F.R.S: Bristol, 8.
BPNCOX ML. Joe eile eeee ee s 79 Manor Road, Fishponds, Bristol.
Williams, Miss E. I. ........ 67 White Cross Avenue, Knowle, Bristol, 4.
Williams, Mrs, G.E. ...... 2 Belmont, de Maulley Road, Canford
Cliffs, Bournemouth, Hants.
2Willis, A. J., B.Sc., Ph.D. Department of Botany, The University,
Bristol, 8.
SIS SH Se 40 Claremont Road, Bishopston, Bristol, 7.
Wise Mins: Reo 0 5. woes Do.
Wiltshire, Miss M.O.P., D.Sc. Clifton Hill House, Clifton, Bristol, 8.
Winterbottom, J., B.Sc., 6 Parkside Avenue, Winterbourne, Nr.
A.M.I.E.E. Bristol.
mew eV ithers,. Wiss ID... oe 21 Upper Oldfield Park, Bath, Somerset.
Museum, North Terrace, Adelaide, South
F.R.E.S Australia.
WOOG Mre Reks fice se oid eles so 86 Brynland Avenue, Bishopston, Bristol, 7.
= «Woodland, P., M.A.......... Rednock, Dursley, Glos.
Be Vworsimanm, DR, ... si. 6. 14 The Croft, Trowbridge, Wilts.
Wraight, G. V., N.D.D. .... 288 Canford Lane, Westbury-on-Trym,
Bristol.
Wraight, Mrs.G.V. ...... Do.
WAIHI Pi es ks ole de ess Woodside, 28 Glebe Road, Long Ashton,
Nr. Bristol.
Yemm, Prof. E. W., B.A., Stoneleigh, Long Ashton, Nr. Bristol.
D. Phil.
Yemm, Mrs. E. W., B.A. . Do.
*H. Yonge, Prof. C. M., C.B.E., The University, Glasgow.
).5¢;, F-R:S., F.R.S.E.
Young, I< Sue ee 12 Clifford Gardens, Shirehampton, Bristol.
Noume, Mrs. Jie... 0... ee Do.
AFFILIATED SOCIETIES
Batu—
Bath Natural History Society (Hon. Secretary Mr. Radford), 3 Charlcombe
Rise, Bath, Somerset.
City of Bath Training College, Newton Park, Newton St. Loe, Nr. Bath, Som.
BristoL—
Bedminster Down Secondary School, Donald Road, Bristol, 3.
Bristol, Clifton and West of England Zoological Society, Clifton, Bristol, 8.
Bristol Grammar School Field Club, Elton Road, Bristol, 8.
414 AFFILIATED SOCIETIES
British Broadcasting Corporation. (Natural History Unit), Broadcasting House,
Whiteladies Road, Bristol, 8.
Clifton High School Field Club, College Road, Bristol, 8.
College of St. Matthias, Fishponds, Bristol.
Duncan House School Scientific Society, The Promenade, Clifton, Bristol, 8.
Geological Society, The University, Bristol, 8.
Portway Secondary Boys School Field Club, Shirehampton, Bristol.
Queen Elizabeth’s Hospital Naturalists’ Society, Berkeley Place, Clifton,
Bristol, 8.
Red Maids Scientific Society, Westbury-on-Trym, Bristol.
Redland High School, Redland Court, Bristol, 6.
St. Ursula’s High School Field Club, Brecon Road, Westbury-on-Trym, Bristol.
Social Club (Natural Science Section), Imperial Chemical Industries Limited,
Trafalgar, The Promenade, Clifton Down, Bristol, 8.
University Horticultural Science Laboratories, Bracken Hill, Leigh Woods,
Bristol, 8.
Botanical and Zoological Societies, The University, Bristol, 8.
DursLEY—
Dursley & District Bird Watching and Preservation Society (Hon. Secretary
T. P. Walsh), 76 Kingshill Road, Dursley, Glos.
Dursley Grammar School Natural History Society, Dursley, Glos.
FALFIELD—
H. M. Prison Scientific Group, Falfield, Glos.
Kincswoop—
Kingswood Grammar School Natural History Society, Hanham Road, Kings-
wood, Nr. Bristol.
LEYHILL—
Birdwatching Goup, Leyhill, Glos.
415
tee ORT OF GOUNCIL
1958
Affiliated Societies. This is a very encouraging increase.
At the Annual General Meeting in January the Officers and Members
of Council were duly elected. Miss M. H. Rogers was elected President in succession
to Mr. R. Bassindale. At the Annual Dinner over 100 members and friends were
present and it was a most successful evening. The guest speaker was Mr. J. H.
Barrett, Warden of Dale Fort Field Centre. The usual General and Sectional
Meetings were held throughout the year.
TT 4 Membership of the Society at the end of the year was 630, with 20
A. C. LEACH, Aon. Secretary.
REPORT OF
ENTOMOLOGICAL SECTION
1958
T the 94th Annual Business Meeting held on Tuesday, January 7, 1958
Mr. Norman A. Watkins was elected President and Mr. Cecil L. Bell
Secretary.
There were five indoor meetings during the year as follows :—
Feb. 4: Films—The Sawfly and Looper Caterpillars.
Mar. 4: Films—The Three Wicked Sisters. Spiders.
Oct. 7: Films—White Flies and Tomatoes. Meadow Ants.
Nov. 4: Films—Bees within the Hive. The ‘‘ Ruthless One.” (A Shell Film).
Sound Recordings made by the Secretary of the following :
(1) Several caterpillars eating. (2) A privet Hawk Caterpillar
eating. (3) The curious hissing sound of the Peacock Butterfly
opening and closing its wings.
Dec. 2: Visit to the City Museum. By kind invitation of the Director,
Dr. F. S. Wallis.
x On Saturday, June 7, the Section held a Field Meeting at Waterley Bottom,
Os.
CECIL L. BELL, Hon. Secretary.
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417
REPORT OF
BOTANICAL SECTION
1958
re-elected President and Mr. R. F. Wills, Hon. Secretary. Committee
members elected were Mrs. G. S. Wakefield, Miss A. M. Sampson,
Dr. A. F. Devonshire, Mr. J. A. Eatough, Mr. F. W. Evens, and Mr. H. F. Howard.
During the year Dr. A. F. Devonshire continued with the scheme for mapping
the British Flora organised by the Botanical Society of the British Isles and reports
the following results at the end of the year. Square 31/56, 403 species ; square
31/57, 596 species ; and square 31 /66, 480 species. In addition square 31 /46 was
jointly taken over with Commander Roe of the Bath Naturalists’ Society and the
number of records raised from 191 to 461. The majority of the new records were
made by Commander Roe.
Once again the Wild Plant Table at the Bristol Museum has been much
appreciated and our sincere thanks go to Dr. F. S. Wallis and Mr. P. Bird of the
Museum and to Mrs. G. S. Wakefield and Mr. F. W. Evens and to all our members
who have contributed specimens.
On Saturday, July 12, there was a whole day excursion by coach to Braunton
Burrows near Barnstaple under the leadership of Dr. A. J. Willis of the Botany
Department, Bristol University. ‘The Burrows is a sand dune system 3} miles long
by 1 mile wide and is famous for its rich flora and fauna. Despite the bad weather
a most interesting and instructive day was enjoyed by 40 members.
A T the Annual Business Meeting held on January 13 Mr. Ivor W. Evans was
During the year the following Winter Meetings were held :
Jan. 13: Annual Business Meeting. Shrubs for scent and colour. Mr. Eric
Hobbis.
Feb. 10: The Work of the Field Studies’ Council. Mr. J. H. P. Sankey,
Warden of Juniper Hall, Surrey.
Mar. 17: ‘‘ Mycetozoa or Creepies ’ and their Ways. Mr. F. W. Evens.
Oct. 13: Members’ Evening. Short Papers and colour transparencies.
Nov. 10: Wind as a Factor affecting Plant Growth. Dr. F. H. Whitehead.
Dec. 12: Flowers of the Isles of Scilly. .Mr. J. E. Lousley.
The following field excursions took place during the Spring and Summer
under the leadership of those named.
May 3: Brean Down. Miss C. Groves.
May 7: Long Ashton Research Station. Mr. G. E. Clothier.
May 19: Flax Bourton. Miss A. M. Sampson.
June 7: Wotton-under-Edge. Mr. E. P. Bury and Mr. H. F. Webb.
June 18: Knowle Hill and Chew Magna. Dr. A. F. Devonshire.
June 30: Brislington to Keynsham. Mr. I. W. Evans.
July 12: Braunton Burrows. Dr. A. J. Willis.
July 16: Pill to St. George’s Wharf. Mr. P. J. M. Nethercott.
July 26: Blackdown. Mr. V. D. Dennison and Mr. R. F. Wills.
Aug. 18: Lamplighters to Avonmouth. Mrs. G. S. Wakefield.
Aug. 23: Bitton and Upton Cheyney. Mr. I. W. Evans.
Sept. 20: Kilcott. Mr. G. W. Garlick.
Oct. 11: Limpley Stoke. Mr. J. A. Eatough.
During the Summer months five indoor meetings were held to which members
brought specimens for identification.
R. F. WILLS, Hon. Secretary.
REPORT OF
GEOLOGICAL SECTION
1958
T the Annual Business Meeting held in the Geology Department of the
AN University on January 15, 1959, the following officers were elected :—
President, Mr. C. E. Leese ; Vice-President, Mr. F. S. Ross; Hon.
Secretary, Mr. R. G. Payne ; Field Secretary, Mr. V. D. Dennison ; Ex-Officio,
Professor W. F. Whittard and President of Students’ Geological Society; Com-
mittee, Mr. H. W. Turner, Dr. S. Simpson, Mr. T. R. Fry, Mrs. G. S. Wakefield,
Dr. M. L. K. Curtis, Mr. A. C. K. Fear, Mr. W. F. Vernon, Miss L. Carlton,
Dr. F. C. Phillips, Mr. R. Bradshaw, Dr. R. J. G. Savage.
During 1958 the committee met twice, on January 17 to make proposals for
officers, and on February 7 to arrange summer and winter programmes. The
Annual General Meeting was held on January 21 when reports were read and
officers elected. Mr. C. E. Leese replaced Mr. F. S. Ross as Chairman. The
Annual General Meeting was followed by a programme of geological films.
The exhibition meeting was held in March in the Geology Department when
four members exhibited geological material. In October Dr. Savage and Mr.
M. E. White gave a demonstration of fossil preparation which was well attended
and enthusiastically received. There were two lecture meetings during the year :
in February Prof. R. F. Peel lectured on ‘‘ Ruwenzori”’? and in November Dr.
G. P. L. Walker of Imperial College, London, lectured on the geology of Iceland.
Both these meetings had a good attendance.
In August a special lecture meeting was arranged to welcome back to Bristol
Dr. I. S. Loupekine on leave from Nairobi. Dr. Loupekine talked about his
expedition to Mount Kenya and illustrated it very fully with colour transparencies.
Members found this an interesting and exciting evening.
There were five Field Meetings during the Summer as follows :—
April : Merehead and Holwell Quarries: leader Mr. T. R. Fry.
May : Meldon Quarry, Devon ; leader Dr. F. C. Phillips.
July : Vale of Pewsey ; leader Dr. D. T. Donovan.
July : Joint Meeting with Botanical Section to Blagdon and Churchill.
September: Winford and Dundry ; leader Mr. F. S. Ross.
All indoor meetings were held in the Geology Department, the last two in
the new Queen’s Building, and the Section puts on record its thanks to Professor
Whittard and indebtedness to the University for making the premises freely
available for these activities.
R. J. G. SAVAGE, Hon. Secretary.
419
REPORT OF
ORNITHOLOGICAL SECTION
1958
D) section the year there were 15 additions to the
Section’s Roll of Members, which now stands at
201. The very poor weather affected attendances
at field walks, and was also the probable cause of a fall
in the number of B.T.O. Nest Record Cards completed.
Only one piece of organised field work was undertaken
—a survey during the breeding season of the Shelduck
population of the coast from the south of Sand Bay to
Sharpness. This work was very well supported, and
Reece SIE KING OF it is particularly gratifying that several new members.
= = contributed effectively to it. The results have thrown
much light on the local breeding distribution and breeding success of the species.
At the 34th Annual Business Meeting, on January 22, Mr. G. E. Clothier,
Mr. S. M. Taylor, Miss F. Wareham and Mr. R. F. Wills were re-elected President,
Hon. Secretary, Assistant Hon. Secretary and Hon. Treasurer respectively. Mr.
H. H. Davis and Mr. G. Sweet were elected to the Committee in place of Mrs.
M. V. Taylor and Mr. B. King, who retired by seniority. Owing to pressure of
other work, Mr. King also resigned from the Editorial Committee, to which Mr.
B. K. Brooke was elected in his place, Messrs. Chadwick, Davis, Poulding and
Wright being re-elected.
The programme of indoor meetings was as follows :—
Jan. 22: Annual Business Meeting. Film, Woodpeckers by H. Sielmann.
Feb. 21 : Joint Meeting with the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds.
Mr. P. E. Brown introduced the film Birds in Britain.
Mar. 5: Summer Field-Programme Meeting. Short talks and recordings
of bird songs.
Mar. 28: Mr. H. H. Davis, ‘‘ To Livingstone for the Pan-African Congress.”
Oct. 10: Mr. Harry Savory, “‘ The History and Practice of Falconry.”
Nov. 7: Talks on some rarer British Breeding Birds, by members of the
Section.
Dec. 3: Joint Meeting with the British Trust for Ornithology. Dr. B.
Campbell, ‘‘ Birds at Helsinki, 1958.”
Attendance at these meetings averaged 98, ranging from 36 (March 5) to
183 (February 21).
The following field walks were held :—
May 12: Portbury to St. George’s Wharf. Messrs. A. C. Leach and G. Bright.
May 17: Aust to Littleton. Mr. H. H. Davis.
May 22: Long Ashton Research Station to Belmont Hill. Mr. G. E.
Clothier and Col. G. A. Bridge.
June 2: Backwell Hill. Messrs. G. E. Clothier and S. M. Taylor.
Attendances at these meetings ranged from 26 (May 12) to 4 (June 2—this:
meeting was abandoned due to persistent heavy rain). Two coach excursions.
were held: an afternoon visit to the Wildfowl Trust on Feb. 23, and an
all-day trip to Dawlish Warren and the Exe Estuary on Sept. 14. These
were attended by 28 and 30 members respectively, and both were rated successful...
The ninth annual Fieldwork Report was published in October, under the
title of “‘ Fieldwork Review ’’—the new title denotes an experimental broadening
of the contents, with the inclusion of articles describing various aspects of field
Ornithology of general or local interest. This represents another stage in our
attempts to help those members who have asked for assistance in learning some-
thing of the technical aspects of Ornithology.
By the courtesy of the South-Western Naturalists’ Union, the Section was able
to arrange a showing in Bristol, on Nov. 12, of the remarkable R.S.P.B. film
Highland Birds. S. M. TAYLOR, Hon. Secretary.
REPORT OF
JUNIOR SECTIO@M
1958
Lecture Theatre the Members’ Committee was elected as follows :—
Michael Edgell (Chairman), Susan ‘Tapp (Secretary), Anita Drummond,
Nigel Webb, Stephanie Sweet and Colin Godman. After the business the Heinz
Sielmann film Summer Meadow was shown.
The following indoor meetings were held :—
Feb. 28: Dr. R. J. G. Savage gave an illustrated talk on “ Dinosaurs.”
Mar. 21: Mr. D. Hammerton gave an illustrated talk on the “‘ Bacteria and
Algae in Reservoirs.”
Sept. 26 : Colin Godman gave an illustrated talk entitled “‘ Archeology and
the Naturalist.”
‘Oct. 25: An Exhibition Meeting held at the Royal West of England
Academy.
Nov. 21: Mr. P. Bird gave an illustrated talk about the Mendip Caves.
Dec. 12: A Joint Meeting with the Botanical Section to hear Mr. Lousley
give an illustrated talk on ‘‘Flowers of the Isles of Scilly.”
The following Field Meetings took place :—
Apr. 12: Aust Cliffs—Leader Mr. F. Stenhouse Ross.
Apr. 20: Portland Bill—Leader Mr. B. King. The following birds of
Special interest were seen :—Common Scoter, Velvet Scoter,
Razorbill, Hoopoe, Fulmar, Kittiwake and Shag.
May 3: Long Ashton Research Station—Leader Mr. G. E. Clothier.
May 30: ‘The Withies,” Chipping Sodbury. An evening meeting led by
Mr. Culverwell.
June 14: Newton Park College—Leader Miss S. Harris. The section was
invited by the Principal of the College, Miss Dawson.
Aug. 20: Hanham Gorge—Leader Mrs. P. M. Morris.
Sept. 13: Leigh Woods—Leader Mr. Clegg. ‘This expedition was for the
purpose of studying snails.
Sept. 21: Steart and Durleigh Reservoir.—Leaders Messrs. B. King and
R. F. Wills aided by Miss E. Palmer.
Dec. 27: The Wild Fowl Trust, Slimbridge—Leader Mr. B. King.
In addition to these Field Meetings expeditions were held under the leadership
of Mr. B. King to Chew Valley or Blagdon Reservoirs in January, February and
March and from September to November inclusive.
The Sectional Roll continues to increase in strength and the average attend-
ance at lectures has risen. Field Meetings especially those outside the Bristol
Area draw many enthusiastic members. During this year the help given by
adult members of the Society has been very valuable and the section continued to
invite interest and support from other sections.
Two new ventures have succeeded in drawing interest from adult friends of
the section as well as providing amusement and interest for the section members.
These were the New Year’s Party on January 7 and the Exhibition Meeting.
This meeting proved to be a great success, being well supported by exhibitors and
viewers. An excellent section on preservation of specimens was compiled by
Colin Godman and numerous members added to the Ornithological Section.
The Advisory Committee has remained unchanged for the past year.
E. R. MILLARD, Hon. Secretary, Advisory Committee.
SUSAN TAPP, Hon. Secretary, Members’ Committee.
A T the Annual Business Meeting held on January 24 in the Physiology
421
me COUNT OF. 1 HE
GENERAL MEETINGS
1958
the Officers and Members of Council were duly elected. Miss M. H.
Rogers was elected President in succession to Mr. Bassindale. Mr.
Bassindale then gave a lecture on his visit to Ghana, and described the climate,
and the types of vegetation found there. The life and habits of the fauna of the
arid scrub and tropical forests were described. ‘The lecture was illustrated by a
film taken by the lecturer.
On February 27 Professor Harris lectured on Plankton and their importance
to the fisheries of the world. They are the ultimate food of all life in the sea.
The many questions asked showed the interest aroused by this lecture.
The Avebury District was the subject of Mr. Grant King’s most interesting
lecture on October 2. He spoke of the history of the early periods as shown by
the various remains. He gave an account of the people, of their pottery and of the
animal life. In the following spring he conducted a fascinating tour of the area.
Professor Sir Alister Hardy’s lecture on Studies in Marine Plankton post-
poned from February, was given on October 30. Sir Alister described with
clarity and humour his own ingenious devices for collecting data. He spoke of his
own experiences in the Atlantic, the North Sea, and Antarctica.
For the last meeting, on November 27, Mr. W. H. Hogg, a member of the
Society, spoke on ‘‘ Weather Forecasting,” with illustrations by lantern slide. He
dealt with the obvious comments on. the weather of the moment before they were
uttered ! Then he told of the practical details involved in short range and long
range forecasts. Members were shown how to criticize their own weather-lore
myths.
"Ts g5th Annual General Meeting was held on Thursday, January 23, when
A. GROOME LEACH, Aon. Secretary.
GENERAL FIELD MEETINGS
LEVEN general field meetings took place during the year, a record number.
k For the first time meetings were held in January and March, and were well
attended. We have therefore followed the excellent example shown by the
Junior Section in holding field meetings throughout the year. ‘The Society paid
its first visit to Flatholm, and this was the most popular meeting of the year with
68 members present. As in the last two years only a brief summary of these
meetings is given here, but a much fuller account is kept in the records of the
Field Section.
Jan. 11: Leader—Mr. H. G. Hockey. Brean Down.
Mar. 15: Leader—Mr. H. G. Hockey. Cockercombe, Quantocks.
Apr. 26: Leader—Miss C. Groves. Chedworth Roman Villa, Bourton-on-
the-Water and the fritillary field at Oaksey.
May 17: Leaders—Mr. and Mrs. D. A. C. Cullen. The Long Barrow at
Leighterton, and Ozleworth Bottom.
June 18: Leader—Mr. C. Bell. Bristol Zoo, by kind permission of the
Director.
422 GENERAL FIELD MEETINGS
May 31 and June 1 : Leaders—Mr. and Mrs. R. F. Wills. A repetition of the
all-night meetings held in the previous two years to hear the dawn chorus.
June 21: Leader—Dr. A. F. Devonshire. Forest of Dean: The High
Meadow Woods, Symonds’ Yat, Foxes Bridge, the Roman Road at Blackpool
Bridge, and the Roman Walls at Caerwent.
July 19: Leader—Mr. H. G. Hockey. Flatholm. Five hours were spent on
the Island.
Aug. 16: Leaders—Mr. I. W. Evans and Mr. H. G. Hockey. Meare Heath
to see the rich fen vegetation.
Sept. 6: Leader—Mr. A. C. K. Fear. Corhampton, Cleeve Abbey,
Nettlecombe, Brendon Hills, Selworthy and Minehead.
Oct. 18 : Leaders—Mr. C. E. Leese and Mr. F. S. Ross. Devizes Museum,
and the Farm Institute at Lackham, where the party was shown round by the
Warden.
A. F. DEVONSHIRE, Hon. Field Secretary.
veal
Perot OL BOTANY IN 1958
By Ceci I. anp N. Y. SANDWITH
HE weather of 1958 is best forgotten. A backward spring, with
the coldest Easter of this century, was followed by a wretchedly
wet summer with no long unbroken spell of sunny days. There was
a drought in the autumn, with much fog, and the Christmas season
was mild and damp with strong winds. It was not a bad year for
botanists, as nothing was burnt up and plants grew luxuriantly and
had a long flowering period.
In the early part of the year N.Y.S. went very carefully through
Miss I. M. Roper’s interleaved copy of White’s Flora of Bristol, by
kind permission of the Brotherton Library, University of Leeds. He
extracted very many unpublished MS. records for our Card Index,
sifting these from the numerous ones which have appeared in print
and have already been indexed. Then, in September, we had the
good fortune to examine for the same purpose Mr. White’s own
interleaved copy of his Flora, which is now in private hands. This
added little unpublished information: Mr. White’s attitude was
eclectic and his notes were mainly those of the new localities of the
rarer plants which are familiar to us. Miss Roper’s copy is a far
fuller and more scientifically kept record of additions made between
1912 and 1935, because she has filled so many gaps in the distribu-
tion of the commoner species for which the Flora gave lists of
localities.
During the year Miss Agnes Fry died at Brent Knoll, aged 88.
She was the daughter of Sir Edward Fry, of Failand House, and had
been a keen student of Hepatics and Mycetozoa with her father,
besides contributing a number of records to Mr. White’s Flora.
We learn that the herbarium of Mrs. E. M. E. Bell, including that
of H. J. Gibbons (see “ Bristol Botany in 1957 ”’), has been presented
to the Botany Department of the University of Leicester.
Mr. Peter Hunt writes that he believes he has located the where-
abouts of the mysterious “‘Downhead Common’’, N. Somerset,
from which Dr. H. F. Parsons and Messrs. J. W. White and David
Fry recorded so many interesting plants more than fifty years ago.
It is not marked on contemporary Ordnance Survey maps, and local
inhabitants have not been helpful. The site is near Cranmore
Tower and is now very overgrown with trees. Mr. Hunt would
regard it as the easternmost bog of Mendip. He found an impressive
424 CECIL I. AND N. Y. SANDWITH
number of species surviving there, including Viola palustris, Scutel-
laria minor and Juncus squarrosus, but saw no sign of Drosera rotundifolia
or Narthecium.
Bristol botanists will no doubt provide themselves with a copy of
the excellent new “ List of British Vascular Plants’, prepared by
Mr. J. E. Dandy at the British Museum (Natural History). There
are many startling name-changes for well-known plants, some due
to a strict application of the International Code of Botanical
Nomenclature, others owing to a rejection of traditional generic
concepts. The order of families follows that of Clapham, Tutin and
Warburg’s Flora, with modifications. In these notes we do not at
present use that order, but we shall adopt such specific nomencla-
tural changes as are in accordance with the Code. The recognition
of generic limits remains, however, in many instances a matter of
opinion.
The names of certain contributors are abbreviated as follows :
A.J.W., Dr. A. J. Willis G.W.G., G. W. Garlick
D.C.P., Dr. D. C. Prowse P.J.M.N., P. J. M. Nethercott
D.M.S., Dr. D. Munro Smith R.G.B.R., Commander
R. G. B. Roe
Sisymbrium officinale (L.) Scop. var. letocarpum DC. New Passage
railway station, G., G.W.G.
Bunias orientalis L. Calcareous grassland north-west of the Rocks,
Marshfield, G., G.W.G.
Cerastium pumilum Curt. On calcareous rubble, the Quarry,
Chipping Sodbury, G., G.W.G.
C’. semidecandrum L. Quarry on north side of Priest Wood, Cromhall,
G., G.W.G.
Sagina nodosa (L.) Fenzl. On an old track through a marshy field
near Windsor Hill, Shepton Mallet, S., R.G.B.R.
Spergula arvensis L. var. sativa (Boenn.) Mert. et Koch. Path in
Michael Wood, Stone, G., G.W.G.
Hypericum humifusum L. Greyfield Wood, Clutton, S., C.Z.S. and
NICS:
Tilia cordata Mill. Wood between Lower Court and Cattybrook
Farm, Over, G., G.W.G. Park Wood, Ozleworth, G., zd.
Probably planted in both stations.
Linum bienne Mill. Warren Hill, Cheddar, S., P.7.M.N.
BRISTOL BOTANY IN 1958 425
Oxalis europaea Jord. (O. stricta auct.). Roadside, Coalpit Heath,
G., D.M.S., det. D. P. Young, who writes, ““A new record for
V.C.34.”> Harter’s Hill, 2 miles south-west of Wells [not
““Wookey’’], S., 1956, V. S. Summerhayes in Herb. Kew., fide
D. P. Young in Watsonia 4, p. 69 (1958).
Melilotus altissima Thuill. Oldford, north of Frome, S., G. B.
Maiulne-Redhead. Whatley Bottom, S., Mrs. N. Wycherley.
Trifolium medium L. Greyfield Wood, Clutton, S., C.LS. and W.Y.S.
T. scabrum L. Quarry at north end of Priest Wood, Cromhall, G.,
G.W.G.
T. striatum L. Rough ground above railway tunnel, Tytherington,
G:, D.CP.
Vicia sativa L. With white flowers at Coalpit Heath, G., D.S.
Filipendula vulgaris Moench. Four scattered patches at Boxwell and
Ozleworth, G., G.W.G.
Rubus ulmifolius Schott. An attractive, sporting form with the pink
flowers converted into a “‘ Bachelor’s Button’? mass of narrow
petals, without stamens but with linear, whitish-tomentose
carpels, was brought to A.7.W. in September last from sand-
stone on Trooper’s Hill, G.
Poteniilla anglica Laich. Railway embankment, Coalpit Heath, G.,
1957, D.M.S., det. Dr. D. H. Valentine.
Aphanes microcarpa (Boiss. et Reut.) Rothm. Parkfield Colliery,
Pucklechurch, G., G.W.G.
Sorbus porrigentiformis E. F. Warburg. Wick Rocks, G., and Asham
Wood, S., P.7.M.N., confirmed by Dr. Warburg.
S. torminalis (L.) Crantz. One tree in Limeridge Wood, Tickenham,
S., Sampson Clay.
Cotoneaster horizontalis Decne. Old quarry, Leigh Woods; and
Burrington Combe, S., P.7.AML.N.
C. microphyllus Wall. ex Lindl. Leigh Woods, S., P.7.M.N., re-
moving the possibility of doubt noted in “ Bristol Botany in
1957".
Callitriche obtusangula Le Gall. Rhine at Pilning railway station ;
and stream at Kilcot, G., passed by J. P. Savidge, G.W.G.
Rhine, Weston-in-Gordano moor, S., 1956, C.I.S. and N.Y.S.
426 CECIL I. AND N. Y. SANDWITH
Peplis Portula L. Near Decoy Pool Farm, Westhay Heath, S.,
E. F. Hamlin in Rep. Bot. Sect., Som. Arch. and Nat. Hist. Soc. for
1957. A first record for the peat moors.
Epilobium hirsutum L. xX parviflorum Schreb. The Leechpool, G.,
G.W.G. All Mr. Garlick’s Epilobia have been confirmed by
Mr. G. M. Ash.
E. montanum L. X parviflorum Schreb. Parkfield Colliery, Puckle-
church, G., zd.
E. lanceolatum Seb. et Mauri. Cattybrook Brick Works, Over, G.,.
id.
E. lanceolatum X montanum. Sandstone quarry, Winterbourne
Station, G., zd.
E.. adenocaulon Hsskn. Redland Green allotments, and from East-
ville to Frenchay, G. ; Brislington and Uphill, 8.,P.7.M.N. It
will soon be unnecessary to give further localities for this.
species.
E.. adenocaulon * montanum. Parkfield Colliery, Pucklechurch, G.,
G.W.G.
FE. adenocaulon x parviflorum. Ridge House, Yate; and Parkfield.
Colliery, G., zd.
E. palustre L. Michael Wood, Stone, G., zd.
Bupleurum tenuissimum L. Seabank below Pill, S., P.F.AL.N.
Apium inundatum (L.) Reichb. fil. Pond north of Thornbury railway
station, G., 1957, D.C.P.
CEnanthe pimpinelloides L. Egford Hill, west of Frome, S., Mrs. N.
Wycherley, det. Herb. Mus. Brit.
Lonicera Caprifolium L. Orchardleigh, near Frome, S., Mrs. N.
Wycherley, det. Herb. Mus. Brit.
Galium Cruciata (L.) Scop. Boxwell Lodge and Odzleworth, G.,
G.W.G.
G. pumilum Murr. Calcareous grassland between St. Catherine and.
Ashwicke Hall, Marshfield, G., G.W.G. An excellent addition
to the Glos. side of our area. There are similar localities on the
Cotswolds in V.C.33.
BRISTOL BOTANY IN 1958 427
G. uliginosum L. The distribution of this species in our district
deserves investigation, and Mr. White’s statement (Flora, p.
357) that it is “‘ rather common ’”’ was questionable even in
1912. It certainly is not so at the present day. This species isa
plant of fenland rather than of acid bogs. We have seen it on
the Somerset side in the Gordano Valley and in Max meadows,
and it is frequent on the peat moors. Many of the localities
given by Mr. White, especially those close to the City and on
the Glos. side, need verifying; but they may have been
destroyed by drainage or building.
Filago minima (Sm.) Pers. Slag heap, Parkfield Colliery, Puckle-
church, G., G.W.G. ‘Two plants on the slope of a spoil-heap by
Greyfield Wood, Clutton, S., W.V.S.
Anaphalis margaritacea (L.) Benth. Rough track in a cleared portion
of Greyfield Wood, Clutton, S., R.G.B.R.
Cirstum dissectum (L.) Hill. Blackdown on Mendip, S., P.7.M.N.
G. dissectum X palustre (L.) Scop. Pasture on Walton-in-Gordano
moor, S., V.Y.S.
Crepis biennis L. Ayford Farm, St. Catherine, G., G.W.G.
Feracium lepidulum (Stenstr.) Omang. “‘ Near Bristol’’, before 1849
and probably in G., G.H.K. Thwaites in Herb. Kew., specimen
identified by P. Sell and C’.. West. New to the district. Pugsley
regarded this species as probably an introduction.
HT. maculatum Sm. Wick Quarries; Parkfield Colliery ; Priest
Wood, Cromhall; and Ayford Farm, St. Catherine, G.,
G.W.G.
Cichorium Intybus L. Whatley Bottom, S., 1957, Mrs. N. Wycherley.
Lysimachia vulgaris L. Pond under railway embankment north of
Thornbury station, G., D.C.P.
Atropa Belladonna L. Four large plants on waste ground, Nazareth
House, Stoke Bishop, G., B. L. Carpenter.
Scrophularia nodosa L. var. Bobartit Pryor. Berrow, S., P. G. Munro
Smith.
Veronica scutellata L. In quantity along a ditch in a pasture on
Walton-in-Gordano moor, S., C.l.S. Not previously recorded,
we think, from the Gordano Valley but we learn that Mr. R. L.
Jefferies found it in 1957 in two spots on the north side, one of
them evidently identical with the above-mentioned site.
428 CECIL I. AND N. Y. SANDWITH
V. catenata Pennell. Hallen Marsh and Ingst, G., G.W.G.
Mentha x Smithiana R. Graham (M. rubra Sm., non Mill.). Stream-
side, Windsor Hill, Shepton Mallet, S., R.G.B.R., det. R.
Graham.
M. X gentilis L. (M. arvensis x spicata). The Abbot’s Way, Eding-
ton, S., F. MZ. Day, fide R. Graham, see Proc. Bot. Soc. Brit. Is.
3, pt. 1, p. 61 (1958).
Scutellaria altissima L. Ina note in Proc. Bot. Soc. Brit. Is. 3, pt. 1,
p- 47 (1958) Dr. A. Melderis shows that this is the correct name
for the plant established near Mells, 8., which has for long been
passing as S. Columnae 'Ten., a species with strongly hairy leaves
and a much longer corolla. Mr. Peter Hunt informs us that the
various records from “* Wadbury Valley ’’, “‘ wooded glen near
Mells ’’, etc., refer to a single locality.
Lamium album L. forma erubescens Wats. ex C. E. Salmon. Roadside
bank, Ozleworth Bottom, near Wortley, G., B.N.S. member on
excursion of May 17th, comm. Mrs. W. Cummins.
Daphne Laureola L. ‘Two strong plants on Clifton Down, G.,
PaF VIN.
Hippophae rhamnoides L. Redcliffe Bay near Portishead, S., 1958,
ILR.P. Heslop, fide E. W. Groves in Proc. Bot. Soc. Brit. Is. 3, pt. 1,
p- 6 (1958), where the history of this shrub at Berrow and
Burnham is fully given in a paper on the occurrence of Hippo-
phae in the British Isles.
Salicornia ramosissima Woods. Severn shore below Hallen, G., C.
Bucknall in F. W. White ms. ‘This record, in Mr. White’s inter-
leaved copy of his Flora, antedates that in “‘ Bristol Botany in
1953’, which was the first published record of S. ramosissima
for the Glos. side of the area. However, Mr. Garlick has made
a series of gatherings of Salicornia along the Severn banks, from
Berkeley down to Aust Ferry, and all his specimens have been
identified as S$. ramosissima by a new specialist in the genus, Mr.
P. W. Ball, who includes S'. Smithtana Moss in that species as a
mere prostrate form. Thus the Fl. Glos. records of S. Smithiana
from Berkeley and New Passage (Day) may safely be referred to
S. ramosissima, but Mr. Bucknall’s find quoted above was still,
perhaps, the earliest. Mr. Garlick could not find S. europaea L.
(S. stricta Dum.) anywhere, but it should occur, as it certainly
grows not far off, at Portbury, S.
Euphorbia platyphyllos L. Cornfield, Wapley, G., D.M.S.
- BRISTOL BOTANY IN 1958 429
E. uralensis Fisch. ex Link (E. virgata auct.). Grassy side of railway
near Sheepway, between Portbury and Portishead, 8., V.Y.S.
‘Betula pubescens Ehrh. Cattybrook Brick Works, Over, G., G.W.G.
Abundant in carr on Walton-in-Gordano moor, S., A.7.W.
Quercus petraea (Mattuschka) Liebl. New and unpublished
localities noted in Mr. White’s and Miss Roper’s interleaved
copies of the Flora are as follows: Durdham Down above
Gully quarry, G., 1929, Miss Roper ; Hanham Woods near the
Avon, G., 1915, Jf. W. White ; and Brockley Wood, S., 1924,
Miss Roper.
Orchis ertcetorum (Linton) E. S. Marshall. Calcareous pasture,
Boxwell to Ozleworth, G., G.W.G., who also collected a probable
hybrid with O. Fuchs Druce.
Coeloglossum viride (L.) Hartm. Above West Wood, Ozleworth, G.,
G.W.G.
Spiranthes spiralis (L.) Chevall. At least a dozen plants on waste
ground on the estuary below Pill, S., 7. T. Roberts. Plentiful
at the eastern end of Goblin Combe, Wrington, S., R.G.B.R.
Convallaria majalis L. A small number of plants in Leigh Woods, S.,
fruited last year, P.F.M.N.
Scilla non-scripta (L.) Hoffmgg. et Link var. bracteata Druce. South-
east of Thornbury, G., comm. D.C.P. The bracts, uncoloured,
were up to 83 inches in length.
Ornithogalum umbellatum L. A few plants in Haw Wood, Hallen, G.,
Dr. A. F. Devonshire.
Juncus subulatus Forsk. Berrow salt-marsh, S., well established in
1957, when first noticed by Dr. A. F. Willis. The writers were
kindly conducted to the spot last September, by Dr. E. W.
Davies. ‘This is a Mediterranean species of salt-marshes,
previously unknown in Britain. There are two large patches,
which have obviously been there for some years, but the plant
must have arrived since 1921, when H.S. Thompson first noted
the rapid development of the Berrow salt-marsh vegetation.
Jj. subulatus, a very distinct and isolated species, has a long,
creeping rhizome, and the leafy stems reach a height of four
feet, with a terminal panicle. Specimens were exhibited by Dr.
Willis at the autumn meeting of the B.S.B.J., and a full account
will be published in Watsonia.
430 CECIL I. AND N. Y. SANDWITH
J. compressus Jacq. Marshy meadow, down for hay, on Catcott
Heath, S., C.l.S. We have seen no previous record from the
peat moors.
J. effusus L. var. compactus Hoppe. Abundant locally on Walton-in-
Gordano moor, S., A.7.W. Not previously recorded but
doubtless frequent.
Potamogeton Berchtoldi Fieb. Rhine, Hallen Marsh, G., G.W.G.
Pond near Holcombe Old Church, S., R.G.B.R. Specimens
from both localities were determined by Mr. 7. E. Dandy.
Eleocharis uniglumis (Link) Schultes. Boggy pasture on Walton-in-
Gordano moor, S., C.J.S. and N.Y.S.
Carex strigosa Huds. Seven Springs, Ozleworth, G., G.W.G. Fry’s
Bottom Wood, north of Clutton, §., Dr. A. F. Devonshire.
C. polyphylla Kar. et Kir. Alderley, Ozleworth and Boxwell, G.,
G.W.G. Lane from Batheaston to Upper Swainswick, §S., id.
The specimens were passed by Mr. E. Nelmes.
Alopecurus geniculatus L. var. bulbosus Sonder. Plants with swoilen
bulbous roots, simulating those of A. bulbosus Gouan and
constant in cultivation at Kew, have been found by G.W.G. on
Inglestone Common, Wickwar, G., and may be referred to this
variety, according to Mr. C. E. Hubbard.
Agrostis stolonifera L. var. palustris (Huds.) Farw. Pond, Onepool
Farm, Iron Acton, G., G.W.G.
Calamagrostis Epigejos (L.) Roth. Summit of Blackdown on Mendip,
S., R. L. Jefferies. Cheddar Gorge, S., Miss E. Overend.
Deschampsia caespitosa (L.) Beauv. var. parviflora (Thuill.) Coss. et
Germ. Dodington Ash ; Lower Woods, Wickwar; Kailcot ;
and Ozleworth, G., G.W.G.
Koeleria vallesiana (Honck.) Berto]. Shute Shelve Hill, §., Dr. 7. F.
Hope-Simpson.
Glyceria declinata Bréb. Pond at Downend, G., D.M.S.
Festuca rubra L. < Vulpia membranacea (L.) Dum. Not uncommon on
Berrow dunes, S., 7.F. and P. C. Hall, see Proc. Bot. Soc. Brit. Is.
3, pt. 2, p. 201 (1959). The first record for our area of this
interesting hybrid which has only recently been detected in
Britain.
BRISTOL BOTANY IN 1958 431
Botrychium Lunaria (L.) Sw. Calcareous pasture, Boxwell to Oczle-
worth, G., G.W.G.
ALIENS. Camelina sativa (L.) Crantz. Tip, Widdin Hill, Horton,
G., G.W.G.
Trigonella hamosa L. Avonmouth Dock, G., C.l.S. and V.Y.S. New
to Bristol. ‘The pods are less strongly falcate than in the typical
form, and the specimens could perhaps be referred to T. uncata
Boiss. et No', which is doubtfully distinguishable as a species.
Melilotus alba Medic. Bank of widened road, Kingsweston Lane,
G., in quantity in 1957, B. L. Carpenter.
M. indica (L.) All. Waste ground, F renchay, G., D.M.S.
Coronilla varia L. Walls of ruin, Downhead Mill, S., R.G.B.R.
Vicia pannonica Crantz var. pannonica. With Lathyrus Aphaca L. on
celestine rubble, Spar Pools, Yate, G., G.W.G.
Lathyrus palustris L. var. pilosus (Cham.) Ledeb. Swampy hollow in
sand-dunes, Berrow, 8., D.M.S., det. N.Y.S. Dr. Munro Smith’s
specimen was found to differ from all the British and Contin-
ental European material at Kew in the copious, curly-pilosulous
pubescence on all vegetative parts. It thus agrees with the var.
pilosus, which is common in both N. America and N. Asia,
and the plant may be assumed to be a recent introduction at
Berrow, where the native form of L. palustris has never been
found and would be most unlikely to occur.
Carum Carvi L. Owl’s Nest Common, Alveston, G., two isolated
plants in 1957, D.C.P.
Helianthus laetiflorus Pers. Old quarry near T'werton, Bath, S., 1935,
JF. P. M. Brenan.
H. Maximilian Schrad. Black Rock Quarry, Avon Gorge, G., 1935,
id. A first record for Bristol.
_ Anthemis tinctoria L. Quarry by Greyfield Wood, Clutton, S., C.LS.
Campanula rapunculoides L. Wall-top, Winterbourne Down, G.,
D.M.S. 3
Lysimachia punctata L. Waste ground, Frenchay, G., D.M.S.
Datura Stramonium L. var. Tatula (L.) Torr. Waste ground near
Oakhill, §., Mrs. Gait, comm. F. M. Pilkington.
432 CECIL I. AND N. Y. SANDWITH 1
Salvia Sclarea L. Quarry by Greyfield Wood, Clutton, §., C.J.S. A
garden outcast, like Anthemis tinctoria which grew with it.
Plantago indica 1.. Cabbage field, Dodington*Ash, G.,"G.W.G.
Chenopodium glaucum L. Avonmouth Dock, G., 1957, J. E. Lousiey,
det. J.P. M. Brenan.
Bromus madritensis L. Rubbish-tip, Weston-in-Gordano, S., A.7.W.
and R. L. Jefferies.
433
BRISTOL BIRD REPORT
1a) gyre:
COMPILED BY THE EDITORIAL COMMITTEE OF THE
B.N.S. ORNITHOLOGICAL SECTION
B. K. Brooke VoL op aD Aqas
P. J. CHADWICK R. H. PouLpING
M. A. WRIGHT
EFORE reviewing the contents of this Report, the twenty-
third in the present series, we should like to take this oppor-
tunity to thank all those who have contributed their observations
for 1958.
The event of the year was undoubtedly the finding of a dead
Bridled Tern at Sand Bay in October—the first record for the Bristol
Area. Only three other specimens have occurred in the British
Isles, all of which were also found dead. Other interesting records
from the Severn Estuary were a Great Snipe at the New Grounds in
January, a Lesser White-front there in February, and a Bittern in
February—March ; while in December two Greenland White-
fronts were identified. Farther south, up to 450 Ringed Plover were
present at Sand Bay in August and two Dotterel were seen on Sand
Point on September 5 (Dotterel were also recorded about this time
at the south and west coast observatories on Portland Bill, Lundy,
Gt. Saltee and Jersey). An October visit to Steep Holm by members
of the Steep Holm Trust Gull Research Station proved most timely
since a movement of Kittiwakes was noted in mid-Channel which
would not otherwise have been recorded. Evidently all the birds
successfully returned to sea as a negative result was obtained when
members of the Research Station’s newly formed ‘‘ wrecked sea-
birds ’? organisation made a special search of the reservoirs and the
whole coastline from the New Grounds to Bridgwater Bay on the
following week-end.
Among the more unusual visitors to the reservoirs were two Bean
Geese with a party of White-fronts at Chew Valley in late January
to mid-February ; a Long-tailed Duck at Cheddar from January
to May and up to five at Chew Valley in March-April ; a pair of
Common Scoters at Cheddar and a party of fifteen at Chew Valley
in early April, while three were seen at Blagdon in mid-June. Chew
Valley reservoir also provided records of a party of nine Water
434 BRISTOL BIRD REPORT
Pipits in April, more than the total of all previous records for the
District ; an early Hobby in the first few days of April ; a Little
Ringed Plover in August; and Wood Sandpipers, Spotted Redshanks
and Ruffs in August-September.
Observations from other areas include reports of a Shag killed at
Pensford in late January a few days after an inland “‘ wreck ”’ of this
species had occurred in Great Britain, and it seems highly probable
that a bird caught in Bristol on the previous day was also a Shag.
A Waxwing was seen at Aust in January and two at Fishponds,
Bristol in February ; single Hoopoes visited Cheddar and Dursley
in April, Wotton-under-Edge in May, and one was unfortunately
shot at Nailsea on November 12. An exceptional record, if referring
to a truly wild bird, is that of a Snow Bunting in a schoolyard near
Dursley in early May, while later in the month a Woodchat
Shrike was seen on the Cotswolds near Dursley—the first record of
this species for over 70 years and only the second reliable record for
the Bristol Area.
At least 40 pairs of Tufted Duck bred successfully at Chew Valley
reservoir and another pair was seen with ducklings at Chew Magna
reservoir. From Chew Valley reservoir there are also reports of a
pair each of Gadwall, Pochard and Shelduck nesting, the Gadwall
and Shelduck being successful but the fate of the Pochard’s nest is
not known. Of equal, if not greater, interest was the finding of a
Curlew’s nest on Walton Moor near Clevedon—the first definite
report of breeding since 1925.
In the systematic list that follows records refer only to 1958 unless
otherwise stated and are largely the result of contributions by the
following members :—R. Angles, A. E. Billett, P. F. Bird, H. J. Boyd,
Col. and Mrs. G. A. Bridge, B. K. Brooke, G. C. Buxton, Mrs. S. I.
Buxton, P. J. Chadwick, $8. E. Chapman, G. E. Clothier, Miss D. M.
Crampton, H. H. Davis, Miss P. Farmer, G. A. Forrest, Miss C.
Graham, D. R. Hamblett, G. H. Hamilton, R. G. Hamilton, Rev.
G. Hamlin, H. R. Hammacott, C. Hockey, H. G. Hockey, D. A.
Holmes, W. A. Holmes, B. King, R. C. Matthews, Mrs. J. Matthews,
T. D. H. Merrie, W. J. Munden, H. W. Neal, P. J. M. Nethercott,
E. G. M. Niblett, Mrs. B. C. Palmer, Miss E. M. Palmer, R. H.
Poulding, J. A. Pryce, J. D. Read, Miss S. Richards, W. L. Rose-
veare, J. Rowe, J. H. Savory, P. Scott, T. B. Silcocks, P. T. Sims,
L. Sullivan, G. Sweet, Miss S. Sweet, S. M. Taylor, P. Tibbs, J.
Vallis, J. D. R. Vernon, M. Waddicor, N. Webb, J. A. F. Wilkins,
Mrs. D. A. Wills, R. F. Wills, M. A. Wright and K. B. Young.
Non-member contributors are :—G. L. Boyle, Mrs. M. L. Butter-
worth, C. Craxton-Smith, M. Davy, A. G. Dixon, N. Dudley, A. C.
BRISTOL BIRD REPORT 435
Gambier, J. Gould, E. G. Holt, S$. T. Johnstone, Miss A. M. P. Judd,
J. Kenny, R. J. Lewis, B. Little, J. A. McGeoch, 8. G. Madge, P. J.
Olney, M.H. Port, Mrs. B. Richards, G. Rudebeck, W. Smith, Miss
U. Stevens, Dr. C. N. Vaisey, T. P. Walsh and M. G. Wilson. Obser-
vations are followed by the appropriate initials throughout. The
initials D.B.P.S. denote records supplied by the Dursley and District
Bird Watching and Preservation Society, and the abbreviations Res.
Stn. and Jnr. Sect. refer respectively to the Steep Holm Trust Gull
Research Station and the B.N.S. Junior Section.
The area covered is that part of Gloucestershire (G.) lying east of
the Severn and south of a line from the New Grounds to the County
boundary at Tetbury, and Somerset (S.) north of the R. Axe and a
line from Wells to the County boundary near Frome. For the
purpose of this Report the area extends westwards into the Channel
and Estuary to include the promontory of Brean Down, and the
islands of Steep Holm and the Denny (cf. Sketch Map, Proc. B.N.S.,
1947, p. 225).
GREAT NORTHERN DIVER’ Gavia immer
S. Single bird, Blagdon res., Jan. 8, 12 (S.E.C., B.K. e¢ al.) ; one,
Cheddar res., Nov. 13 to end of Dec. (B.K., J.A.McG.) but two,
Nov. 16 (J.A.McG., M.G.W.) ; one, Chew Valley res., Jan. 19
KGsC-be 5. 1B.) and Feb. 16 (S.E.C.).
RED-THROATED DIvER’- Gavia stellata
S. An oiled bird first seen, Cheddar res., Jan 5, found freshly
dead on 8th (B.K., J.A.McG.). One, seen frequently, same res.,
Jan. 19 to Mar. 31 by various observers. Single bird, Chew Valley
res., several dates, Mar. 16 to Apr. 2 (G.C.B., S.I.B. e¢ al.).
GREAT CRESTED GREBE Podiceps cristatus
S. Max. winter reservoir counts: 22,Cheddar, Jan. 5 (J.A.McG.);
_ five, Blagdon, Feb. 6 (G.C.B., S.I.B.) ; and 18, Chew Valley, Mar.
16 (W.A.H., T.D.H.M.). Four pairs, Blagdon res., May 3 (B.K.),
all subsequently rearing young (P.J.C.). At Chew Valley res.,
nine nests with eggs found, May 18 (A.E.B.) and at least 13 pairs
present, June 22 (B.K.). Early autumn totals of 56, same place,
Sept. 14, and 34, Oct. 12 (G.C.B., S.1.B.).
SLAVONIAN GREBE_ Podiceps auritus
Se -@ne, Cheddar res.,-Feb.:16 to Mar. 2 (J.A.McG., T.B.S.
et al.).
436 BRISTOL BIRD REPORT
LittTLeE GreBE Podiceps ruficollis
S. Few breeding records, particularly from minor waters :
pair with two young, Chew Magna res., July 19 (P.J.C.) ; seven
broods, Chew Valley res., Aug. 10 (B.K.) ; and four ‘broods
reported, Blagdon res., Oct. 5 (T.B.S.). Autumn counts of 36,
Chew Valley, Oct. 12 (G.C.B., S.I.B.) and 20, Blagdon, Dec. 6
(B.K.).
FutmarR Fulmarus glacialis
S. One in flight off south side of Steep Holm, June 8 (B.L. per
Res. Stn.).
GANNET Sula bassana
S. Oiled adult found dead, Sand Bay, Jan. 26 (R.A.).
CoORMORANT Phalacrocorax carbo
G. One, high over Filton, Sept. 20 (T.D.H.M.) and a single
bird flying south, Knowle, Bristol, Nov. 1 (G.C.B., S.1.B.).
S. Reservoir records show little change from previous year with
max. numbers again at Cheddar in winter—ten, Jan. 19 (J.A.McG.)
and Feb. 8 (B.K.). First winter bird on R. Avon, Twerton, nr.
Bath, for two weeks in Feb. (R.J.L.). Thirty-two occupied nests,
Steep Holm, May 4 (Res. Stn.). Party of 14 in flight, Sand Bay,
Seplor (Rea).
SHAG Phalacrocorax aristotelis
G. Juvenile ringed, Farne Isles, 6/7/57, found oiled and later
destroyed, Avonmouth, 31/12/57 (C.C-S. per G.E.C.). One,
either this or previous species, found in street, Kingswood, Bristol,
Jan. 26—subsequently released at Clevedon by R.S.P.C.A. official.
S. One, killed by car, Pensford, Jan. 27 (G.E.C., W.J.M.).
HERON Ardea cinerea
S. Twenty-seven occupied nests, Brockley Combe, Apr. .26:
extensive tree felling in December may have reduced this old
heronry (B.K., B.R., S.R. e¢ al.).. Other heronries : four, possibly
six, occupied nests, Newton Park, Newton St. Loe, Apr. 20 (R.J.L.)
and 21 occupied nests, Uphill Grange on 23rd (W.L.R.).
BITTERN Botaurus stellaris
G. One in, or near, W.T. enclosures, New Grounds, Feb. 1, 3
and Mar. 19 (M.D., P.J.O., P.S.).
BRISTOL BIRD REPORT 437
MALLARD Anas platyrhynchos
G. Thirty on wet pasture, Little Sodbury, Jan. 18 (W.A.H.).
Highest total, New Grounds—over 1,800, Sept. 15 (H.J.B.).
S. Frequent winter and autumn counts of up to 200, several
localities, Weston Bay area but no estimate made of total popula-
tion : max. counts of 176, Sand Bay, Jan. 11, and 180, Nov. 30
(T.B.S.) ; 140, Axe Estuary, Oct. 8 (E.G.H.) ; and 202, Weston
Bay, Dec. 26 (T.B.S.). Other coastal counts include: 122, Yeo
Estuary, Aug. 17 (T.B.S.) and 121 on 26th (W.L.R.) ; 310, Cleve-
don, Oct. 11 (B.K.). Highest reservoir totals of 411, Chew Valley,
Jan. 19, and 491, Feb. 16 (G.C.B., S.1.B.) with autumn peak of 702,
Sept. 20 (B.K.) ; 191, Blagdon, Jan. 22 (B.K.B.) and 428, Aug. 31
(P.J.C.). Barrow Gurney returns of 102, Feb. 16, and 214, Dec. 15
(G.E.C.) : at Cheddar, winter and autumn maxima were 85, Feb.
16, and 165, Nov. 30 (J.A.McG.). Breeding reported from Chew
Valley res. (at least 25 broods), Blagdon and Litton resrs. ; also
at Newton Park Lake (Jnr. Sect.), Sand Point (T.B.S.) and Walton
Moor, nr. Clevedon (R.A.).
‘TEAL Anas crecca
S. Coastal counts include : 97, Clevedon to Yeo Estuary, Jan.
19 (P.J.C., M.A.W.) ; 86, Yeo Estuary, Nov. 30 (T.B.S.) ; and 140,
Sand Bay, Dec. 25 (T.B.S.). Highest reservoir counts from Chew
Valley, Jan.Mar.: 500, Jan. 19 (G.C.B., $.1.B.) ; 477, Feb. 2
(P.J.C., M.A.W.) and 1,046 on 16th (G.C.B., $.1.B.). Unusually
scarce, Blagdon res.—55, Sept. 14 (B.K.B.) and up to 20 on several
dates in December (S.E.C., W.L.R.).
GARGANEY Anas querquedula
G. One in pens, New Grounds, early Feb.—Apr. (S.T.J.).
S. Pair, Cheddar res., Mar. 23 to Apr. 12 (W.A.H., J.A.McG.,
G.S.) and a male, May 4 (J.A.McG.). Single birds, Chew Valley
ges, Apr. 4, 6 (P.T. ¢ al.) ; four, same place, Apr. 7 (D.A.W.,
R.F.W.) ; one, Apr. 23 (G.S.) and a pair on 25th (S.E.C.). Single
male, Blagdon res., Apr. 12, 13 (B.K.B., A.G.D.); and two pairs,
Clapton Moor, nr. Clevedon, on 12th (H.W.N.).
GADWALL Anas strepera
S. Reservoir population continuing to increase and successful
breeding reported for the first time. Recorded all months, Chew
Valley, with notable counts of eleven, Jan. 2 (A.G.D., S.G.M.); 13,
April. 13 (G.C.B., S.1.B.) ; 30, Sept. 14 (P.J.C., M.A.W.) and 26,
438 BRISTOL BIRD REPORT
Nov. 9 (S.E.C.). Female with eleven well grown ducklings, same
place, July 26 (B.K.), Aug. 4, 5 (P.J.C., M.A.W.). Ten, Litton
res., Feb. 16 (D.A.W., R.F.W.), 22 (S.E.C.) ; and a pair, Blagdon
res., Dec. 6 (B.K.).
WiGcEON Anas penelope
G. Winter counts of 1,500, New Grounds, Jan. 13, 14 (P.J.O.) ;
2,500, Jan. 25 (B.K. N.W.) and 1,300, Feb. 18 (H.J.B.).
S. Coastal records : 71, Weston Bay, Jan. 26 (P.J.C., M.A.W.)
and 127, Kingston Seymour, same date (T.D.H.M.) ; 31, Sand
Point, Dec. 28 (R.A.). Present in large numbers Chew Valley res.,
Jan.—Apr., with max. monthly totals of 1,700, Jan. 19, and 1,650,
Feb. 16 (G.C.B., S.1.B.); 987, Mar. 2, and 470; Apne (Bb Ka\e
Summer records of a single female, same place, May 3, 11, Aug. 23
(B.K.), 24 (P.J.C.) ; single male, May 23 and June 22 (S.E.C.).
Autumn max. of 674, Nov. 16 (G.C.B., S.I.B.). Winter numbers at
Blagdon res. not exceeding 220—Feb. 6 (B.K.)—with highest
autumn count of 188, Dec. 14 (B.K.B.). Largest number noted,
Cheddar res.—80, Mar. 2 (J.A.McG.).
PINTAIL Anas acuta
S. Larger numbers than in recent years reported from Chew
Valley res., with max. counts of 74 (45 males), Feb. 16 (G.C.B.,
S.1.B.) ; 36, Mar. 2.(S.E.C., B.K.) and 25, Dee or (BAK?) a pair,
same place, Apr. 19 (B.K.) and May 18 (P.J.C., M.A.W.), also
two males and two females on late date of June 19 (G.S.). Recorded
in smaller numbers at other resrs.—four, Barrow Gurney, Mar. 2
(P.J.C., M.A.W.) ; one, Blagdon, Feb. 6 (G.C.B., $.1.B.) and two,
Mar. 16 (B.K.B.) ; one, Cheddar, Feb. 16, and seven, Mar. 2
(J.A.McG.).
SHOVELLER Spatula clypeata
S. High concentrations at Chew Valley res. in period Jan. to
Apr.—notable counts of 288, Jan. 26 (B.K.) ; 307, Feb. 8 (S.E.C.) ;
477, Mar. 16 (G.C.B., S$.1.B.) and 175, Apr. 7 (B.K.). Smaller
numbers, autumn, same res., with monthly maxima between 8o,
Sept. 14 (G.C.B., S.1.B.) and 116, Dec. 21 (S.E.Cy, BK)" Uscaree
or absent at other reservoirs, highest counts notified were 26,
Cheddar, Mar. 2 (J.A.McG.) and 40, Blagdon, Dec. 14 (B.K.B.).
No records received from Barrow Gurney and Litton resrs. Four,
Newton Park Lake, Mar. 16, Apr. 4 (R.J.L.). Breeding reported,
BRISTOL BIRD REPORT 439
Chew Valley res., where B.K. noted four broods, June 28 (34
ducklings) and July 10 (27 ducklings), while P.J.C. records five
broods (43 ducklings), July 6.
Scaup Aythya marila
S. Several records of a single female, Blagdon res., Feb. 16 to
fpr. 4,(B.K.B., G.L.B., B.K.) and Dec. 30 (M.A.W.); also
solitary female seen, Cheddar res., Mar. 23 to Apr. 27 (J.A.McG.,
G.S.). One, occasionally two (male and female), Chew Valley
res., Jan. 19 to Apr. 16 (G.C.B., $.1.B., N.W. e¢ al.) but two males,
pr. 19 (B.K.).
TurteD Duck Aythya fuligula
S. Present in considerable numbers throughout year, Chew
Valley res., with winter peak of 433, Feb. 16, and autumn max. of
356, Nov. 16 (G.C.B., $.1.B.). High spring and summer counts by
B.K. include: 394, Apr. 24; 290, May 25; and 123 adults, June
28. Further increase in breeding population, same res., where at
least 40 broods identified July—Aug. (P.J.C., B.K.). Survey, July
19 by P.J.C. showed 33 broods comprising over 223 ducklings ;
while adults and juveniles totalled 327, Aug. 16 (B.K.). Barrow
Gurney resrs.: max. numbers—6o, Feb. 16 (G.E.C.) and 51,
Oct. 5 (P.J.C.). Blagdon res. : peak counts—189, Feb. 6 (G.C.B.,
eB); 197, Mar. 16 (B.K.B.); 346, Nov. 14, and 389, Dec. 14
(B.K.B.). Winter max., Cheddar res. of 30, Feb. 1, and autumn
counts of 28, Nov. 30, and 53, Dec. 14 (J.A.McG.).
PocHARD Aythya ferina
S. Winter counts of 590, Cheddar res., Jan. 5, and 460, Feb. 1
(J-A.McG.) : exceptionally high numbers in autumn, same res.,
maui. 0.100, Nov. 30 (J.A-McG.); 1,215, Dec. 7 (P.J.C., M.A.W.)
and c. 1,050 on 14th (J.A.McG.). Max. counts from other main
resrs. also occurred in autumn—1i160, Chew Valley, Nov. 16
(G.C.B., S.1.B.) and 368, Blagdon, Dec. 14 (B.K.B.). Thirty-three,
Jan. 19, and 21, Dec. 15 (G.E.C.) are the only noteworthy counts
from Barrow Gurney reservoirs.
Nest, containing six eggs, found in reeds, Chew Valley res., June
4, by A.E.B., who obtained good views of the duck and also a nearby
drake. First breeding record from the reservoir.
GOLDENEYE Bucephala clangula
S. Reported in smaller numbers than in recent years at resrs. Up
to six, Blagdon, Jan. to late Apr. (G.C.B., P.T. et al.) and five, Dec.
440 BRISTOL BIRD REPORT
9, 14 (B.K.B., W.L.R.) ; two, Cheddar, Feb. 1 (J.A.McG.) and
Dec. 21 (T.B.S.). Frequently noted, Chew Valley res., Jan._May
and Oct.—Dec. with max. counts of seven, Feb. 16 (G.C.B., S.I.B.) ;
nine, Apr. 6 (T.B.S.) ; three on late date of May 3 (B.K.) ; and
thirteen, Nov. 16 (G.C.B., S.I.B.).
LonG-TAILED Duck Clangula hyemalis
S. A female, first seen in Oct. of previous year, Cheddar res.,
remained throughout winter (various observers) and was last seen,
May 15 (W.L.R.). Two males, Chew Valley res., Mar. 29, and two
males and three females, an unusual number inland, same place,
Apr. 19 (B.K.). Further Long-tailed Duck observations from Chew
Valley res. are not in accord with those given above and it seems
likely that there has been confusion between this species and North
American Ruddy Ducks (Oxyura jamaicensis) at the reservoir which
have escaped from the Wildfowl Trust at Slimbridge.
ComMoNn ScoTER Melanitta nigra
S. Unusual spring records from the resrs.—pair, Cheddar, Apr.
4 (B.K., G.S.) ; 15 (eight males), Chew Valley, Apr. 6 (B.K.,
T.B.S.) and three males, Blagdon, June 16 (B.K.). Female or
immature with probable male, Cheddar res., Aug. 3 (P.J.C.,
M.A.W.) and single female, same place, Dec. 28, 29 (S.E.C.,
J.A.McG.). Autumn coastal records of two off Sand Point, Nov.
23 and a female, Sand Bay, Nov. 30 (T.B.S.) ; four females off
Brean Down, Dec. 13 (T.B.S.) and three females or immatures,
Weston Bay, Dec. 7, 22 (P.J.C., M.A.W.).
SMeEw Mergus albellus
S. Female or imm., Blagdon res., Jan. 25 (W.A.H., T.D.H.M.),
and four, Feb. 23 (D.A.H., T.D.H.M.), Mar. 13 (W.L.R.). Fre-
quently noted Chew Valley res., Jan—Mar. : max. counts of 15,
Jan. g (S.E.C.) ; 16, Jan. 19, and nineteen (including three ad.
males) on 26th (P.J.C., M.A.W.). Solitary ad. male, same res.,
Dec 21 (S.E- GC. Bik
GOOSANDER Mergus merganser
S. Many records from resrs. throughout winter though smaller
numbers again evident. Up to three, Blagdon, Jan. 12 to Mar. 29
(B.K.B., G.S., P.T. e¢ al.) and one, Dec. 6 (B.K.). Male and female,
Cheddar, several occasions, mid-Feb. to early Apr. (J.A.McG.,
T.B.S.) and a single male, Dec. 7-21 (P.J.C., M.A.W. eé al.). Three
or four, Chew Valley, several dates, Feb._Mar. (G.C.B., S.1.B. e¢ al.)
but six, Mar. 29 (B.K.).
BRISTOL BIRD REPORT 44]
SHELDUCK Tadorna tadorna
G. and §. A survey of the coast from Weston-super-Mare to
Sharpness by 38 members, and extended to the northern end of The
Noose sands, New Grounds, by the Wildfowl Trust staff, showed
approx. 600 birds present in early May. Although 75% paired,
many were immature. First young observed at beginning of June,
and it was estimated that 52 broods comprising about 366 ducklings
were brought to the water. Last full count, July 13, showed
survival of 307 young (per S.M.T.).
Chew Valley res. records : six, Feb. 2 and up to four, Mar._May
(B.K.) ; pair with ten ducklings, June 19 to July 22 (B.K., G.S. et
al.) but only six juveniles on 26th (B.K.). Autumn coastal counts
include : 666, Weston Bay, Oct. 28 (W.L.R.).
WHITE-FRONTED GoosE Anser albifrons albifrons
G. Records from the New Grounds are of 3,000 for most of Jan.,
with total decreasing during snowy weather in early Feb. but rising
again to a winter max. of 4,600 on 16th (H.J.B., P.S.). Number
still about 4,000, Mar. 3, falling to 1,500 on 11th and just over 1,000
on 12th. ‘Total remained thus till Mar. 24 and though 720 still
present on 27th or later only two were left Apr. 2 (figures recorded
are the highest yet for second half of Mar.) (H.J.B.). 70 flying low
over Thornbury, Jan. 5 (T.D.H.M.). First autumn record, New
Grounds, three, Sept. 28 ; slow increase, Oct., to 170 on 31st, with
Nov. totals rather lower but following influx in early Dec. numbers
exceeded 700 on gth and remained at that level till close of the
month when the birds had increased to 920 by 28th and 1,200 on
29th (H.J.B.). Four low overhead between St. George and
Hanham, Bristol, Nov. 25 (H.G.H.).
S. Fifty, probably White-fronts, flying up-Channel off Sand
Point, Feb. 9 (T.B.S.) ; 42 seen, Weston-super-Mare, same date
(R.H.P., M.A.W.). About 80 flying north over Hinton Blewitt,
Feb. 15 (D.A.H., W.A.H.). Noted in varying numbers and on many
occasions, Chew Valley, early Jan. to early Mar. and though some-
times seen on the water were usually in fields at north end of the
reservoir (P.J.C., M.A.W. et al.). First reported (26, birds), Jan. 2
(A.G.D., S.G.M.) but numbers had increased to more than 100 by
early Feb. (B.K.B., J.A.McG., E.M.P., Jnr. Sect.), with max. of
120, Feb. 2 (B.K.); 55 still remaining, Mar. 2 (B.K.). Thirty
overhead, Newton Park, nr. Bath, Nov. 30 (R.J.L.). One, Chew
Valley res., Dec. 7 (B.K.), 18 (A.G.D.) and two on aist (B.K.).
Single bird, Wick St. Lawrence saltings, Dec. 27 (T.B.S.).
442 BRISTOL BIRD REPORT
GREENLAND WHITE-FRONTED GoosE Anser albifrons flavirostris
G. One identified, New Grounds, Dec. 27 (Jnr. Sect.), 30 (M.D.>
P.J.O.). Two reported, same place, Dec. 28 (N.D.).
LEssER WHITE-FRONTED GOOsE Anser erythropus
G. Reported once only: a single adult, New Grounds, Feb. 11
(M.D.).
BEAN GoosE Anser arvensis
S. One, with White-fronts, in fields adjoining Chew Valley
res., Jan. 26 and two, Feb. 2, 8, 9; birds identified and fully
described by P.J.C., B.K., R.H.P., and M.A.W.
PINK-FOOTED GoosE Anser brachyrhynchus
G. New Grounds: occasional small parties early in year ;
nine, Apr. 4 (unusually late date) being the most (H.J.B.). First in
autumn, same place, six, Sept. 27 ; further arrivals, mid-Oct., when
total reached 42 (H.J.B.). All had gone by Nov. 14 but several
very small groups reported later, and flocks of 30 and 61 seen, Dec.
so, 31. DP: -O- CNW),
S. One, a ringed bird, with White-fronts, in fields at Chew
Valley res., Jan. 26, Feb. 2 (P.J.C., B.:K., M-AUW2 Jngisect. 2
BARNACLE GoosE Branta leucopsis
G. Up to three on saltings, New Grounds, various dates, Jan
3 to Mar. 27 (H.J.B.). A few, same place, in autumn were all
apparently strays from the W.T. collection (H.J.B.).
BRENT GoosE Branta bernicla
G. Two, both dark-breasted form B. b. bernicla, New Grounds,
Jan. 9: one or the other being seen on at least eight other dates,
Jan. 3 to Mar. 23 (H.J.B.).
BEwick’s Swan Cygnus bewrcki
G. Up to 16 on Estuary, New Grounds, various occasions, Jan.
5-26 (P.J.O., P.S.). Up to five present, same area, second half of
Mar.—four visiting W.T. enclosures from goth to 23rd (H.J.B.,
oad We Fen aes oe
S. Five ads., Blagdon res., Jan. 4 (S.G.M.) and thirteen (11 ads.,
2 imms.) on 25th (W.A.H., T.D.H.M.). Eleven (5 ads., 6 imms.),
Chew Valley res., Jan. 6 (S.G.M.).
BRISTOL BIRD REPORT 443
Buzzarp_~ Buteo buteo
G. Single birds, Michael Wood, nr. Tortworth, Mar. 3, Apr. 27,
30 ; two, North Nibley area, Apr. 10, 18, May 4, and one, Sept.
22; one, Breadstone, Berkeley, Apr. 20, and three, Ozleworth
Bottom, nr. Wotton-under-Edge, May 11 (D.B.P.S.). One,
Doddington, Apr. 27 (R.H.P.).
S. Reported, usually singly or in pairs, during nesting season from
Chewton Mendip, Newton St. Loe, Norton St. Philip, Long Ashton
Clapton Moor, Bishop Sutton, Redhill, Blagdon, Winscombe and
Cheddar areas, but no evidence of breeding. ‘Two, Blagdon, Jan.
@o, Mar: 15 (G.S.); three, Litton res., Feb. 16 (R.J.L.). Single
birds, Walton Moor, nr. Clevedon, Mar. 1 (M.A.W.) ; Leigh Woods,
July 15 (J.A.F.W.) ; Weston-super-Mare, Aug. 26 (R.A.) ; Nailsea
Aug. 30, Oct. 12 (H.R.H.) ; Cheddar, Nov. 1 (S.E.C.) ; Brockley
Combe, Nov. 9 (G.C.B., S.I.B.) ; and West Harptree area, Dec.
a1 (S.E.C.).
SPARROW Hawk Accipiter nisus
S. Two, Steep Holm, Mar. 15; one, Mar. 17 and female on
18th ; immature male, caught in trammel net and ringed, same
place, May 3 (Res. Stn.).
Monracu’s HArRRIER Circus pygargus
G. A “ring-tailed’’ harrier being mobbed by Rooks was seen
at Marshfield on May 25 by B.K., who records that it was probably
of this species.
Hossy- Falco subbuteo
G. Single bird, Little Stoke, July 14 (H.H.D.) ; another seen
to take a Swift, New Grounds, Aug. 6 (G.R.); single birds,
Wotton-under-Edge, Sept. 9, 14, 16 (D.B.P.S.).
S. One, Chew Valley res. on very early date of Apr. 7 (B.K.).
Single bird calling in flight, Chelvey, July 25 (H.H.D.).
PEREGRINE Falco peregrinus
G. Single birds, New Grounds, Nov. 23 (B.K.), Dec. 27 (Jnr.
Sect.). One, Purton, Dec. 9 and two on goth (D.B.P.S.).
S. Frequently noted at coastal localities, mostly in spring and
autumn, but no evidence of successful breeding. Inland records :
immature, Chew Valley res., Aug. 8 (G.L.B.), and an adult soaring,
same place, Sept. 20 (H.H.D., B.K.).
444 BRISTOL BIRD REPORT
MERLIN Falco columbarius
G. Female or immature, Slimbridge, Nov. 15 (B.K.).
S. One reported nr. Uphill, Weston-super-Mare, Aug. 19
(M.L.B.) ; female, Steep Holm, Oct. 12, 14 (Res. Stn.) ; single
birds, Sand Point, Oct. 26 and Woodspring Bay, Dec. 27 (T.B.S.).
KestrReEL Falco tinnunculus
S. Single bird, Steep Holm, Mar. 18; one flying east over the
island, Oct. 12 (Res. Stn.).
RED-LEGGED PARTRIDGE Alectoris rufa
G. Three, nr. Codrington, Apr. 27 (R.H.P.).
S. Pair, Uphill, Weston-super-Mare, Apr. 1, 9 and single bird
on roth (R.A.). One heard, Sand Point, Apr. 13 ; two, Brean Down,
Sept. 14 (R.A.), Nov. 30 (E.G.H.).
Quai Coturnix coturnix
G. Two, calling, Marshfield, June 12 (B.K., G.S.).
WatTER Ratt Rallus aquaticus
S. One, Sand Bay, Mar. 9; two, perhaps three, heard, same
place, Dec. 7 (R.A.) and one, Dec. 19, 14, 25) (RAR Bose
Single birds, Chew Valley res., Mar. 30 (T.D.H.M. ef al.), Aug. 25,
(R.J.L.) ; and juvenile, same place, Dec. 7 (B.K.). Two flying over
reeds, Clapton Moor, Apr. 12 (H.W.N.). One, nr. Abbots Leigh,
Dec; 30)0)-G. per WA Ee).
Coot Fulica atra
S. Reservoir records include : 1,900, peak total, Cheddar, Jan.
19, decreasing to 310 by end Mar. ; autumn counts, same res., less
than 1,000 until Dec. (J.A.McG.) ; ©. 1,450, Dees 7-1 PF. ):Ca
M.A.W.) and at least 1,600 on 28th (J.A.McG.) ; 260, Barrow
Gurney, Jan. 19 (G.E.C.) ; 450, Blagdon, Feb. 6 (G.C.B., 8.1.B.)
and 525, Aug. 4 (P.J.C., M.A.W.) ; and 1,260, Chew Valley, Feb.
16 (G.C.B., S.I.B.).
OYSTERCATCHER Haematopus ostralegus
G. Single bird, R. Avon, Sea Mills, Jan. 12 (W.A.H.) ; two, nr.
Purton, Aug. 28 (P.J.O.).
S. 157, Weston Bay, Jan. 10, and 147, Dec. 14 (R.A.) ; up to 70,
Sand Bay, Oct. 1g-Dec. 14 (R.A., T.B.S.). Four, Steep Holm,
BRISTOL BIRD REPORT 445
Mar. 16, May 4, and five on landing beach, Oct. 14 (Res. Stn.) ;
three, St. George’s Wharf, Portbury, Sept. 14 (W.A.H.). One,
Chew Valley res., Mar. 16 (G.C.B., S.I.B.) ; four, same place, Aug.
3 (W.A.H., T.D.H.M., J.A.F.W.) and six on 28th (B.C.P., E.M.P.).
Two in flight high above Cheddar res., Aug. 3 (P.J.C., M.A.W.) ;
bird, dead some weeks, same res., Sept. 2 (W.L.R.).
RINGED PLOVER Charadrius hiaticula
G. 70-80, Severn Beach, Aug. 27 (H.W.N., M.A.W.).
S. Up to 75, Weston Bay, Jan. 27-Feb. 19, and 78, Oct. 28
(R.A.) ; 120, Sand Bay, May 20; 100, Aug. 4 and very large
counts of 450, Aug. 14, and 350 on 31st ; max. of 16, same place,
Oct. to end Dec. (T.B.S.). Records from Chew Valley res. include :
six, May 31 (B.K.) ; up to 16, Aug. 1-Sept. 14 (various observers) ;
single bird, Cheddar res., Apr. 4 (G.S.) and four, May 3 (W.A.H.).
LirTLE RINGED PLOVER Charadrius dubtus
S. One, Chew Valley res., Aug. 7, 8 (S.G.M.)—full details
supplied.
GREY PLOVER Charadrius squatarola
S. Two, Kingston Seymour, Jan. 26 (D.A.H., T.D.H.M. eé¢ al.) ;
six, Woodspring Bay, Apr. 4; one in summer plumage, May 26 ;
two, same place, July 1, Nov. 30 ; and single birds, Sand Bay, Mar.
FO, Aug, 14 (T.B:S.).
GOLDEN PLOVER Charadrius apricarius
S. 141, Marksbury, Jan. 19 (P.J.C., M.A.W.), and 132, Apr. 13
PX.j:L.) ; 66 in flight, Queen Charlton, Nov. 6 (S.LB.); 87,
Lulsgate aerodrome, Nov. 23 (P.J.C., M.A.W.). Few coastal
records—max. of 40, Sand Bay, Dec. 21 (R.A.).
DoTreREL Charadrius morinellus
S. Two, Sand Point, Sept. 5 (T.B.S.)—conclusive details
supplied.
TURNSTONE Arenaria interpres
G. Counts at Severn Beach include : 189, Feb. 27 ; at least 203,
Mar. 29; and ¢. 120, Dec. 27 (W.A.H., T.D.H.M.). Fourteen,
New Grounds, May 9 (M.D.).
446 BRISTOL BIRD REPORT
S. One, Chew Valley res., May 29 (S.E.C., W.A.H.) ; five, two
in summer plumage, Aug. 10 (B.K., G.S.) ; one, same place, Aug.
16, 20 (S.E.C., M.G.W.). Single birds, Sand Bay, July 19, Aug. 17
(R.A.).
GREAT SNIPE Capella media
G. One, New Grounds, Jan. 28, flushed several times by B.K.
who has supplied a detailed description which includes: large
amount of white at sides of tail, rather slow, silent flight, comparative
tameness and large size.
Jack Snipee Lymnocryptes minimus
S. Single bird, Chew Valley res., Nov. 29 (B.K.) and two, Dec.
7 (S.E:C.).
Woopcock Scolopax rusticola
G. One, Westerleigh Plantation, Mar. 9, 16; bird shot, same
place, Dec. 27 (J.A.P.). Single birds, Purton, Apr. 3 and Bourn-
stream, nr. Wotton-under-Edge, Dec. 12 (D.B.P.S.).
S. One, Uphill, Mar. 3 (R.A.) and Newton Park, Apr. 4 (R.J.L.).
CuRLEW Numenius arquata
G. 170, Hallen Marsh, Jan. 12 (K.B.Y.) ; 243, Severn Beach,
Feb, 12 (W.A.H.).
S. Nest found with two eggs, Walton Moor, nr. Clevedon, May
3, by R.A. provides the first conclusive evidence of breeding in the
District since 1925—cf. Proc. B.N.S., 1947, p. 255-
WHIMBREL Numenius phaeopus
G. and S. Frequently noted at coastal localities during spring
passage.
S. Inland records: two or three, Charlcombe, Bath, Apr. 27—
30 (C.R.S.) ; 26, Nailsea Moor, Apr. 27 ; 54, Kenn Moor, Apr. 29
(W.A.H., T.D.H.M.) ; at least 25, same place, May 10 (R.A.).
Two, Chew Valley res., May 8, and 12, Aug. 10 (T.B.S.) ; five in
flight, Cheddar res., May 10 (W.A.H.).
BLACK-TAILED GopwitT Luimosa limosa
G. Twenty, New Grounds, Aug. 15 (M.D.) ; 12 on 16th, and
18, Sept. 6 (H.J.B.).
BRISTOL BIRD REPORT 447
_§. Three, Weston Bay, Mar. 25 (R.A.) ; five, Sand Bay, Aug.
14 (T.B.S.). Single birds, Chew Valley res., Mar. 31 (S.E.C.,
M.G.W.), June 4 (W.A.H.), Aug. 2-16 (B.K., W.L.R. eé¢ al.).
BaR-TAILED Gopwit Limosa lapponica
G. Five, New Grounds, May 8 (H.J.B.), and two, Oldbury-
upon-Severn, Oct. 18 (H.W.N.).
S. Single birds, Weston Bay, Apr. 15-17 (R.A.) and Yeo
Estuary on 29th (W.A.H.).
GREEN SANDPIPER Tringa ochropus
G. Single birds, New Grounds, Sept. 15 (M. D.) and R. Frome,
Prate,. Dec. 27, 28 (J.A.P.).
S. Few spring records. Single birds, Blagdon res., Apr. 6
(Psy-C:) ; Chew Valley res., Apr. 6, 13 (G.C.B., S.1.B., B.K.) and
Kenn Moor on 15th (H.W.N.). Frequently reported, Chew Valley
res., July 3-Sept. 27 (various observers) with max. of 17, July 19
(P.J.C.) and 15, Aug. 24 (B.K.) ; three present, Oct. 25, and one,
Nov. 9 (S.E.C.). One, Chew Magna res., July 19 (P.J.C.) and
Cheddar res., Nov. 16, 30 (W.A.H., J.A.McG.), Dec. 14 (J.A.McG.).
Single birds, Yeo Estuary, Aug. 26 (W.L.R.) ; Bathford, Sept. 9
(R.J.L.) ; Old Mixon, Weston-super-Mare, Oct. 21 (R.A,) ;
Woodspring Bay, Nov. 16; and Wick St. Lawrence on 30th
(IBS. )..
Woop SANDPIPER Tringa glareola
See-@ne, Chew Valley. res, Aug. 17 (G.C.B., S.LB.), Sept: 3
0B Ky,.G.S:)'; two, same place, Sept. 6, 20 (7.B.5., G.S.):
ComMMON SANDPIPER Tringa hypoleucos
S. Birds possibly wintering: one, Chew Valley res., Jan 12
eA MeG,), Dec. 18 (A:G.D.) ; two, R. Avon, Pill, Nov. 9 (P.J.C.);
one, Woodspring Bay, Nov. 16 (T.B.S.). ‘Twenty, Cheddar res.,
Apr. 27 (J.A.McG., M.G.W.) ; 13, Chew Valley res., Aug. 24
(B.K.) and 15, Sept. 8 (M.G.W.) ; 12, Sand Point, July 23 (T.B.S.).
REDSHANK Tringa totanus
S. Max. coastal counts: c. 200, Sand Bay, July 19, Aug. 15,
Nov. 30 (R.A., T.B.S.) ; and 294, Axe Estuary, Oct. 28 (W.L.R.).
Breeding season records are of: five pairs, Yeo Estuary area, end
May (J.D.R.V.) ; two pairs, one with small youngster, Kewstoke,
D
448 BRISTOL BIRD REPORT
May 26 (T.B.S.); three, possibly four, pairs, Chew Valley res.
during May (P.J.C. e¢ al.), and two pairs, each with two young, ©
same res., June 19 (B.K., G.S.).
SPOTTED REDSHANK Tvinga erythropus
S. Chew Valley res.: one,_Aug. 17 (GIG B27 S48) three,
Aug. 20 (M.G.W.), 24 (P.J.C., B.K., MAW) ayo. Sept. 14
(S.E.C., J.A.McG.), and one on 2oth (S.E.C.,G.S.). Single bird,
Woodspring Bay, Sept. 7 (T.B.S.).
GREENSHANK Tringa nebularia
G. One, Oldbury-upon-Severn, Aug. 15 (T.D.H.M.) ; two,
New Grounds, Aug. 27 and single bird, Sept. 15 (M.D.).
S. One, Chew Valley res., May 3, 8, 10 (P.J.C., S.E.C., R.F.W.)
and up to seven, same place, July 17—-Oct. 2 (various observers).
Four, Cheddar res., May 4 (B.K., J.A.McG.) ; one, July 6, 13, and
three on 17th (B.K.). Single birds, Sand Bay, Aug. 3-Sept. 6
(T.B.S.) ; St. George’s Wharf, Mouth of R. Avon, Aug. 26 (W.A.H.,
J:A.F.W.) ; and Uphill) Sept. 13 (R-AD:
Knot Calidris canutus
G. At least 300, Severn Beach, Feb. 12 (W.A.H., T.D.H.M.) ;
25, New Grounds, May 8 (H.J.B.).
S. Approx. 60, Weston Bay, Jan. 20 (R.A.) and 32, Dec. 6
(M.L.B.). One in summer plumage, Sand Bay, July 15 ; 34, same
place, Aug. 31 (T.B.S.) and 168, Sept. 13. (R.A:), Simele bird,
Chew Valley res., Nov. 30 (S.E.C., P.T., N.W.).
LittLE StTintT Calidris minuta
S. One, in summer plumage, Sand Bay, May 20-22 (T.B.8.).
Dunun Calidris alpina
G. 850, Oldbury-upon-Severn, Mar. 15 (T.D.H.M.).
S. Totals from Weston Bay—Sand Bay area include: 1,800,
Jan. 4 (R.A.) ; 2,000, May 9, 16; and 1,000, July 28, Dec. 6
(R.A., T.B.S.). Reservoir records include: single bird, Blagdon,
Apr. 3 (W.L.R.) ; four, Cheddar, Apr. 26 (M.G.W.) ; six, Chew
Valley, May 3, and ten, Aug. 10 (B.K.) ; two, Barrow Gurney,
Oct. 19 (W.A.H.).
BRISTOL BIRD REPORT 449
SANDERLING Crocethia alba
S. Reported from Weston Bay-Sand Bay area only—single
birds, Feb. 23, Apr. 17; up to 25, May 8-22; and up to five,
July 28-Sept. 12 (R.A., M.L.B., T.B.S.).
RurFr Philomachus pugnax
G. Thirteen, New Grounds, Sept. 17 (M.D.) ; six, Sept. 20
ert, | 5;) and five on 21st (P.J.O.).
S. Recorded at Chew Valley res. only : one, sometimes two,
Aug. 2—Sept. 5 (various observers) ; five, Sept. 6 (T.B.S.) ; eight,
Bept. 19. (J.A-McG, M.G.W.), 14 (G.C.B.,.8.I.B.) ; and six on
26th (G.S.) ; two, Oct. 2 (G.C.B., B.C.P. e¢ al.).
Grey PHALAROPE Phalaropus fulicarius
S. One, nr. main dam, Chew Valley res., Oct. 5 (D.A.W.,
R.F.W.).
GREAT BLACK-BACKED GULL Larus marinus
S. Twenty-two (14 ads.), Axe Estuary, Feb. 9, and 20 at roost,
Mouth of R. Avon, Nov. 9 (P.J.C.).
LrEssER BLACK-BACKED GuLL Larus fuscus graellsi
S. Some 30-50 pairs of L. fuscus and L. argentatus attempted to.
breed on the Denny Island, Chew Valley res., but eggs systemati-
cally collected by B.W.W. Co. staff and only two young seen : no
evidence as to proportions of species (Eds.). Roosting again noted,
same place—565, Aug. 14 (B.K., G.S.) ; 150, Dec. 13 (B.K.).
Flock of 158 on flooded pasture, Midford, nr. Bath, Oct. 12 (R.J.L.).
SCANDINAVIAN LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULL Larus fuscus fuscus
G. One, apparently this race, New Grounds, Jan. 10 (B.K.).
HeErrinc Guiu_ Larus argentatus
S. Only two roost counts from Chew Valley res.—210 imma-
tures, May 11 and gathering of 725 adults in late afternoon, Dec.
13 (B.K.). Adult ringed, Steep Holm, 7/4/56, found dead nr.
Looe, Cornwall, 5/1/59 (Res. Stn.).
LittLeE Gutu Larus minutus
S. First-year bird reported, Chew Valley res., Dec. 1957,
remained till Mar. 23 (various observers). Another, Cheddar res.,
450. BRISTOL BIRD REPORT
Feb. 16-Mar. 23 (D.A.H., J.A.McG. e¢ al.). Single juveniles,
Cheddar res., Aug. 24; Chew Valley res., Sept. 3 (B.K., G.S.) and
one found dead on 8th (S.E.C.).
BLACK-HEADED GuLL_ Larus ridibundus
S. Approx. 14,750 at roost, Mouth of R. Avon, Feb. 18 (P.J.C.),
Max. roost count from Chew Valley res.—at least 800, Dec. 13
(B.K.).
Kirtiwake Rissa tridactyla
G. Adult, Severn Beach, Aug. 27 (H.W.N., M.A.W.).
S. Remains of first-year bird in tide-wrack, nr. Yeo Estuary,
Jan. 19 (P.J.C., M.A.W.). Spring records all of first-year birds :
two in flight, Cheddar res., Apr. 13 (J.A.McG.) ; remains of one,
Steep Holm, May 2 (Res. Stn.) ; and one in flight, Sand Bay on
2oth (T.B.S.).. Autumn records: juvenile, Cheddar res., Aug. 3
(P.J.C., M.A.W.), 7 (W.A.H.) ; and adult, Chew Valley res. on
24th (P.J.C., M.A.W.). Seaward movement noted off Steep
Holm, Oct. 13, when at least sixteen adults seen in afternoon, and
a further eight on similar course the following day. Birds evidently
on redetermined passage after being swept up-Channel in early
hours of Oct. 13 by strong S.W. winds which had suddenly increased
to gale force between 2400 and 0600 G.M.T. and had subsequently
dropped to about 20 m.p.h. (Res. Stn.).
Buiack TERN Chlidonias niger
G. Three over estuary, New Grounds, Sept. 8 (M.D.).
S. Only two spring records—7o0, Chew Valley res., May 1
(D.M.C.) and four, May 4 (B.K.). Return passage from mid-
July to mid-Oct. with peak in third week August. Twelve, Chew
Valley res., July 19, Aug. 11 and smaller numbers to 17th; c. 80,
same place, Aug. 18; 25 or 26 from 2oth to 24th, with 39 on 25th
and min. of 50 on 28th; c. 30, Aug. 30 but only two on gist; up to
six in Sept. and one, Oct. 12 (various observers). Reports from
Cheddar res. include : 12, Aug. 10 (J.A.McG.), Sept. 27 (M.G.W.);
five, Oct. 5 (J.A.McG.) and very late record of one, Nov. 1 (S.E.C.,
M.G.W.) ; while at Blagdon res. species noted only in period mid-
Sept. to early Oct. with max. of ten, Sept. 28 and seven, Oct. 5
(TeBSivet al.).
Common TERN Sterna hirundo Arctic TERN Sterna macrura
S. One spring record, a single bird, Cheddar res., May 15
(W.L.R.). Autumn passage lasted from July 6 to Oct. 12, with
BRISTOL BIRD REPORT 451
movements noted at Cheddar and Chew Valley resrs., Aug. 10 and
24—majority thought to be Airundo. Chew Valley records: 113—
most arriving during afternoon, Aug. to (B.K., G.S., 8.8.) ; up to
11, Aug. 14-23; 23 (+), Aug. 24—arriving during day (P.J.C.,
M.A.W.) and 57 on 27th (W.A.H.) ; 29, Sept. 6 (T.B.S.), and up to
four, Sept. 8-25 (various observers). Very few noted, Cheddar
res., except for parties of 76, Aug. 24 (B.K.) and c. 25, Sept. 27
ivMi.G.W.)... Max. of five, Blagdon . res., Sept. 28, Oct. .5
CE.B.S.)}.
LittLE TERN Sterna albifrons
S. One over R. Avon, nr. Bath railway station, Sept. 7 (R.J.L.).
SANDWICH TERN Sterna sandvicensis
S. One, Yeo Estuary, May 30 (J.D.R.V.).
BRIDLED TERN Sterna anaethetus
S. Adult in autumn moult found dead on beach, Sand Bay,
Oct.17(M.A.W.). Identification confirmed by the British Museum
(Natural History) and the Editors of British Birds. Fourth record
for the British Isles and first for Somerset—cf. Report on Somerset Birds,
1958.
Barn Ow. Tyto alba
G. Single birds, Coalpit Heath, Mar. 18, Apr. 16 (J.A.P.) ;
Hallen Marsh and nr. Avonmouth, Apr. 7 (H.W.N.) ; Cattybrook,
May 31 (P.J.C.) ; and frequently at Westerleigh, nr. Yate, Sept.—
Dec. (J.A.P.).
S. Only one nest found, pair rearing two young at Worle
(C.H., H.G.H.), but birds noted in breeding season at Bourton
Combe, Walton Moor, Priddy, and Blagdon and Chew Valley
resrs. (various observers).
SHORT-EARED OQwL_ Asio flammeus
S. One, hunting over rough pasture on coast, nr. Kingston
Seymour, Nov. 16 (P.J.C.).
NIGHTJAR Caprimulgus europaeus
G. Pair, Michael Wood, Tortworth, throughout summer {
single bird, Waterley Bottom, Wotton-under-Edge, July 22, 23
(D:B.P.S.).
452 BRISTOL BIRD REPORT
Swirt Apus apus
S. Two or three with Martins and Swallows, Cheddar res., Apr.
18, and c. 15 on 26th (M.G.W.). Party of 20 on migration passing
N.E. over Blagdon res., Apr. 24 (G.S.). Well over 1,000, Chew
Valley res., May 10 and at least 1,000, Aug. 4 (P.J.C.) ; 200-300,
same place, Aug. 12, 13 (S.G.M.) and 170 passing over reservoir on
16th (B.K.). Late records of four, Chew Valley res., Sept. 8 and
one, Cheddar res. on 20th (M.G.W.).
KINGFISHER Alcedo atthis
G. Nest found, R. Frome, Chipping Sodbury, May go (Jnr.
Sect.). Present on R. Boyd, Wick, throughout year and adult seen
feeding juvenile in July (D.R.H.). Single birds on R. Trym, Feb.
18, Apr. 22, 24 (H.W.N.) and R. Frome, Stapleton, various
occasions during year (C.H., H.G.H.).
S. Bred successfully on Land Yeo river, Flax Bourton (per J.V.)
and R. Axe, nr. Wookey Hole (J.A.McG.). Other breeding season
records from Blagdon, Chew Valley and Litton resrs., Hunstrete
and Newton Park lakes, and along R. Avon from Keynsham to Bath
(various observers). One, nr. mouth of R. Yeo, May 3 (J.D.R.V.).
HooroEe Uhbupa epops
G. One in field, Lower Wick, nr. Dursley, Apr. 22 ; another in
school grounds, Alderley, nr. Wotton-under-Edge, May 4 (D.B.-
PS):
S. Remains of one found, Cheddar res., Apr. 17 (D.A.W.,
R.F.W.). One shot (by accident !), Nailsea Moor, Nov. 12—
remains sent to City Museum, Bristol (per J.H.S.).
LEssER SPOTTED WOODPECKER Dendrocopos minor
G. Single birds, Yate Rocks, Apr. 13 (J.A.P.) ; Red Wood, nr.
Purton, Apr. 16, 20 (D.B.P.S.) ; Thornbury, Aug. 2 (T.D.H.M.) ;
and Little Stoke on 6th (H.H.D.).
S. Dead adult by roadside, Uphill, Apr. 18 (R.A.), and single
birds, Saltford, July 21 (B.K.), Aug. 14 (B.K., G.S.) and Sand
Point, Aug. 10 (T.B.S.).
SWALLOW Hirundo rustica
S. Approx. 200 roosting in reedbed, Clapton Moor, Apr. 23
‘H.W.N.) but none on 25th (M.A.W. e¢ al.).
{\
BRISTOL BIRD REPORT 453
Sanp Martin Riparia riparia
S. Breeding records : 30-50 pairs in drainage pipes of retaining
walls, Messrs. Fry’s Chocolate Factory, Keynsham (per P.J.C.) ;
three pairs in similar sites in railway banks, Bristol—two nr.
Parson St. Station (R.A., S.M.T.), one nr. Temple Meads Station
(R.A.) ; 4-6 pairs, Saltford and 4 pairs in bank of R. Avon 1 mile
up-stream (P.T.S.).
GOLDEN ORIOLE Oriolus oriolus
G. Loud musical and far reaching call notes heard by B.K. in
Blaise Castle Wood, July 5, were considered to be those of a Golden
Oriole. The bird could not be traced subsequently.
RAVEN Corvus corax
G. Pair, Old Decoy Wood, nr. Purton, several dates in Mar. and
Waterley Bottom, nr. Wotton-under-Edge on 17th (D.B.P.S.).
S. No evidence of successful breeding, and although 2 or 3
young in nest, Brean Down, Apr. 25, none seen subsequently
(R.A., W.L.R., T.B.S. et al.). Pair roosting in Town Quarry,
Weston-super-Mare, July—Oct., possibly adults from Brean Down
(R.A.)—cf. Proc. B.N.S., 1957, Pp. 371.
CARRION CROW Corvus corone
S. Single birds off Steep Holm, May 4, June 30 (Res. Stn.).
Rook Corvus frugilegus
S. Solitary nest on pylon, Uphill, Mar. 21 but destroyed by
27th (R.A.) ; another in same vicinity, Apr. 29 (W.L.R.).
JAY Garrulus glandarius
S. One watched burying object, possibly oak-apple, nr. Cheddar
res., Dec. 13 (B.K., P.T.)—cf. Brit. Birds, LI, pp. 500-502.
Buvue Tir Pavus caeruleus
S. Thirteen trapped, Steep Holm, Mar. 14-19 (Res. Stn.)—
possibly overwintered, as two had been ringed on Island, Oct. 1957.
Coau Tir Parus ater
S. Three, Steep Holm, Mar. 14-19 (Res. Sin.).
DiprER Cinclus cinclus
G. Only records—single bird seen on three occasions, Yate,
end Apr. to mid-May (J.A.P.), and one on weir, R. Boyd, Wick, in
uly (D.R.HL:).
454 BRISTOL BIRD REPORT
RinGc OuzeL Turdus torquatus |
S. Seven (5 males, 2 females), Crook Peak, Apr. 8 (R.A.).
WHEATEAR Oenanthe oenanthe
S. Pair bred successfully, Wavering Down; adults with one
young, and second pair present, June 8, which apparently did not
breed (P.J.M.N.). At least seven of the larger “‘ Northern ’’ form
on coast, nr. Kingston Seymour, Sept. 14 (P.J.C.) and three, Brean
Down, Oct. 11 (B.K.).
Biack RepsTartT Phoenicurus ochruros
G. One male, Severn Beach, May 4 (G.C.B., S.I.B.).
S. Single male, Sand Bay, Apr. 13 (R.A.). Single females or
immatures, Sand Point, Oct. 26 (R.A., T.B.S.), Nov. 14 (J-.A.McG.);
Uphill, Nov. 9 (R.A.) ; Brean Down, Nov. 29 (T.B.S.) ; and adult
male, same place, Dec. 7 (2_}-G2 MLA.W-):
GRASSHOPPER WARBLER Locustella naevia
S. Seven males located, Walton Moor, mid-May (P.J.C.) and
three, Wrington Warren (C.G.). Other breeding season records
from Burrington, Backwell Hill, Claverton, Leigh Woods and
Brean Down (P.J.M.N., U.S. eé¢ al.).
REED WARBLER Acrocephalus scirpaceus
S. Three singing males, Newton Park Lake, June 29 (R.J.L.)
and two or more, Chew Valley res., July 3 (B.K.,G:S.).
Goxtporest Regulus regulus
S. Three, Steep Holm, Oct. 11-14 (Res. Stn.).
Prep FLycaTcHER Muscicapa hypoleuca
G. Single male by R. Trym, Sea Mills, Bristol, Apr. 21 (H.W.N.)
and single females, Wick, Apr. 26, 27 (D.R.H.), Brandon Hill,
Bristol, May 9 (P.J.M.N.). One, female or immature, Wick Court,
Sept. 7 (D.R.H.).
S. A male, Wraxall, Apr. 27 (R.G.H.).
Rock Pipir Anthus spinoletta petrosus
S. Breeding population of six pairs, Sand Point and adjoining
cliffs towards Woodspring (T.B.S.). Inland records, presumably
of this race : one, with party of nine Water Pipits, Chew Valley res.,
Apr. 3 (B.K.), 4 (P.J.C., G.S., M.A.W.) and another, Dec. 5
(M.A.W.) ; two, Cheddar res., Nov. 20 (G.S.).
BRISTOL BIRD REPORT 455
Water Pipir Anthus spinoletia spinoletta
S. One, Clevedon, Mar. 16 (B.K., S.R.). Party of six, Chew
Valley res., Mar. 31 (S.G.M.) and nine at same spot, Apr. 3, 4. with
smaller numbers (max. of 5) to Apr. 12 (D.M.C., S.E.C., B.K.,
G.S. et al.). Single birds also reported from Sand Point, Apr. 12
(R.A.) and Chew Valley res., Nov. 29 (B.K.).
Prep Wactait Motacilla alba yarrellu
S. Approx. 150-225 roosting in reedbed, Chew Valley res.,
sept. 11. (G.H.H., L.S.).
Grey WacraiL Motacilla cinerea
S. Arather unusual record is that of a party of seven, Sand Bay,
Sept. 7 (1.B.5.).
YeLtow WactaiL Motacilla flava flavissima
S. Forty roosting in Spartina, Sand Bay, Sept. 3 (T.B.S.).
Some 50-75 roosting with Pied Wagtails in reeds, Chew Valley
mepocpr, it (G.H.H., L.S.).
Waxwinc Bombycilla garrulus
G. One seen at close range, Aust, Jan. 14 (H.W.N.). Two in
garden, Fishponds, Bristol, Feb. 8 (per P.F.B.).
WoopcHAT SHRIKE Lantus senator
G. Adult on telephone wires by roadside, nr. Dursley, May 27,
was identified by M.H.P. who has supplied a detailed plumage
description. Features noted include the compact, heavy-headed
appearance ; chestnut crown and nape; black upper parts with
well-marked white scapulars ; black tail with white outer tail-
feathers ; very white under-parts ; and the stout, slightly hooked,
shrike-like bill. First record for the District for over 70 years—cf.
roc. B.N.S., 194:7, Pp. 237.
RED-BACKED SHRIKE JLanuius collurio
S. Pair attempted to breed, nr. Kewstoke, but nest eventually
deserted (R.A.). Single male, Redcliffe Bay, June 17 (K.B.Y.).
STARLING Sturnus vulgaris
S. Large increase noted at Newton St. Loe roost during Feb.
(R.J.L.)—cf. Proc. B.N.S., 1957, P- 374-
456 BRISTOL BIRD REPORT
Hawrincy Coccothraustes coccothraustes
G. Adult male in garden, Clifton, several occasions, Jan.—Feb.,
and party of five once in Feb. ; single male, same placz, Nov. 10
(G.A.F.). One, New Grounds, June 8 (A.M.P.J., P.J.O.) and
another, Coombe Hill, nr. Wotton-under-Edge, Oct. 10 (D.B.P.S.).
S. Pair seen frequently in garden, nr. Bath, Feb. 2-25 (C.N.V.).
Single birds, Weston-super-Mare, Apr. 4 (R.A.), 7, 9 (P.F.).
SISKIN Carduelis spinus
S. Two, nr. Litton res., Jan. 19 (B.K.) and party of 15, Newton
Park, Newton St. Loe, on 26th (A.C.G.). Two with other finches,
Sand Bay, Oct. 26 (R.A.). Approx. 30, Wrington, Nov. 18
(E.G.H.).
REDPOLL Carduelis flammea
S: ‘Three; nr. Litton res.,, Jan. 19) (Bake
CrossBiLL Loxia curvirostra
G. Three, Westonbirt Arboretum, Oct. 19 (D.B.P.S.).
S. Twelve, Faulkland, nr. Norton St. Philip, Oct. 18 (E.G.H.).
BRAMBLING § Fringilla montifringilla
S. Two seen in flight over Steep Holm, Oct. 1o—one later settled
for a short time. First record for the Island (Res. Stn.).
Corn Buntinac LEmberiza calandra
G. Eleven heard or seen, Marshfield, June 12 (B.K.). One
heard, Mangotsfield, Aug. 10, 17—near site where small colony
located in 1954 (R.H.P.).
S. One, Yoxter, Mendip, May 26 (P.J.C., M.A.W.).
Cirt Buntinc Emberiza cirlus
G. Single male, Penpole, nr. Shirehampton, Bristol, May 11
(K.B,Y.).
S. Breeding season records from Cheddar (at least 5 males
located), around Bleadon and Hutton, Kewstoke, and the Wells
area (RUA) ID Rav seta):
Snow Buntinc Plectrophenax nivalis
G. Party of five, Severn Beach, Jan. 2 (G.H.). One, presum-
ably a wild bird, in grounds of Woodfield Primary School, nr.
Dursley, on the unusual date of May 6 (D.B.P.S.).
S. Single birds, Clevedon, Dec. 2 (W.S., M.W.), and Sand Bay
on 25th (T.B.S.).
457
LEPIDOPTERA NOTES
Bers TOL DISTRIGT, 1958
By C. S. H. BLATHWAyYT
COLD spring was followed by a wet summer with few really
\ fine days or warm nights. The autumn was perhaps a little
better so far as weather was concerned.
The year was a bad one for both Butterflies and Moths.
The following records are my own, except when otherwise stated.
Argynnis aglaia Linn. (Dark Green Fritillary). A fine specimen of var. charlotta
was taken by C. L. Bell in the Mendips in July.
Lycaena phlaeas Linn. (Small Copper). An unusual variety with dark forewings
and transparent hindwings was taken by C. L. Bell in the Mendips in June.
Herse convolvuli Linn. (Convolvulus Hawk). One at light, Weston, September 16.
Cerura hermelina Goeze (bifida Hubn.) (Poplar Kitten). One at light, Weston,
June 16.
Cerura furcula Linn. (Sallow Kitten). One at light, Weston, August 30.
Pseudoips bicolorana Fuessl. (quercana Schiff) (Scarce Silver-lines). Several at light,
Weston, in July.
Apatele leporina Linn. (Miller). One at light, Weston, July 5.
Agrotis cinerea Hubn. (Light Feathered Rustic). At light, Weston, May 27 and
June 5.
Agrotis trux Hubn. (lunigera Steph.) (Crescent Dart). Several at light, Weston,
July and August.
Dasypolia templi Thunb. (Brindled Ochre). Three at light, Weston, October 17.
Hydraecia paludis Tutt (Saltern Ear). Several at light, Weston, in August.
Laphygma exigua Hubn. (Small Mottled Willow). Two at light, Weston, July 27
and August 27.
Cucullia absinthii Linn. (Pale Wormwood Shark). One at light, Weston, July 25.
Heliothis peltigera Schiff. (Dark Bordered Straw). Eight at light, Weston, May,
June and September.
Bomolacha fontis Thunb. (Beautiful Snout). One at light, Weston, June 21.
Sterrha dilutaria Hubn. (holosericata Dup.) (Silky Wave). Fairly common Durd-
ham Down, July 5.
Mysticoptera sexalisata Hubn. (sexalata Retz.) (Small Seraphim). One at light,
Weston, June 29.
Rhodometra sacraria Linn. (Vestal.). One at dusk, Weston, September 14.
458 a. Ss. H. BLATHWAYT
Plemyria bicolorata Hufn. (Blue-bordered Carpet). One at light, Weston, July 7.
Eupithecia distinctaria H.S. (constrictata Guen) (Thyme Pug.). One at light,
Weston, July 7. |
Selenia lunaria Schiff. (Lunar Thorn). One at light, Weston, June 8.
Cleora ribeata Clerck (abietaria Hubn.) (Satin Beauty). One at light, Weston,
July 19.
Margaronia unionalis Hubn. (Scarce Olive-tree Pearl). Four at light, Weston,
August, September and October.
459
SeeeeDT ES. ON THE BIOLOGY
Ore LrHE BRISTOL CHANNEL
UDG
NOTES ON THE INTERTIDAL FAUNA OF SOME SANDY AND Muppy
BEACHES IN THE BristoOL CHANNEL AND SEVERN ESTUARY
By E. C. HaApDERLIE AND R. B. CLARK
N the course of an investigation of the intertidal fauna of sandy
beaches around the coast of south-western Britain during the
autumn of 1958 we have had occasion to examine a number of
beaches in the Bristol Channel area. The fauna of some of them has
already been described in this series by previous investigators and
we take this opportunity to supplement their observations and to
comment on the present status of some members of the fauna.
Attention has been directed primarily towards the occurrence and
distribution of the polychaete family Nephtyidae and other animals
in the sand have been noted only incidentally. Our observations on
the beaches are therefore far from exhaustive. A full report of the
investigation will be published elsewhere, but we include here
observations of local interest. We are particularly indebted to Mr.
R. Bassindale for his advice and assistance in many ways.
The beaches are taken in succession round the coasts under the
names by which they are located on the map, Fig. 1.
‘THE Mumstes. ‘There is a shingle bank at H.W.M. ; the rest of the
beach is composed of fairly coarse sand lying over clay. ‘The beach
derives some protection from south-westerly storms but is still
relatively exposed and the substratum contains little silt or fine
sand. The salinity of the sea, measured at low water, was 26.3%).
Nephtys cirrosa common in the lower half of the beach.
SWANSEA. Low sand dunes at H.W.M., the rest of the beach
composed of coarse sand. Salinity 26.4%,. A small collection of
Nephtys from this beach was kindly sent to us by Prof. E. W.
Knight-Jones of University College, Swansea and we have since
visited the beach and made additional collections. Both Nephtys
cirrosa and WN. hombergi occur in approximately equal numbers.
This is very unusual and no other beach in the Bristol Channel
460 E. C. HADERLIE AND R. B. CLARK
- super-Mare
Cw
S Port Talbor
FicurE 1.—Map of the Severn estuary and Bristol Channel showing the stations
at which collections have been made, the three zones into which this area may be
divided, and intertidal sand and mud-banks (stippled).
STUDIES ON THE BIOLOGY OF THE BRISTOL CHANNEL XIX 461
has been found to contain both species. The only other beach on
the coasts of South Wales and South-West England to contain
both species in more or less equal proportions that we have
discovered is at Torquay. ‘The two species have the same inter-
tidal distribution and both are distributed over the lower half of
the beaches.
Port Tausot. Clean sandy beach exposed to heavy surf. ‘The
substratum is composed of coarse sand including numerous
fragments of shell. Salinity 30.8%,. Nephtys cirrosa is fairly
common around and below M.T.L. A single specimen of
Nephtys longosetosa was found above M.T.L. This is an arctic,
circumpolar species and is only rarely found on the western and
southern coasts of Britain. ‘Iwo specimens of the amphipod
Haustarius arenarius were found near H.W.M.
PorTHCAWL. ‘There is a shingle bank at H.W.M., the rest of the
beach is composed of clean sand with some pebbles and numerous
shell fragments. As at Port Talbot, the beach is exposed to heavy
surf. Salinity 29.8%. Nephtys cirrosa is fairly common around
M.T.L. ‘Three specimens of the spionid polychaete WNerine
cirratulus were also found at M.T.L.
Luantwit Major. ‘The beach and its fauna were previously
described by Purchon (1957). ‘There is a shingle bank at
H.W.M., the rest of the beach is rocky except for a strip of sand
running across the beach to L.W.M. Salinity 30.0%. Purchon
recorded WNephtys caeca from this beach, but after an extended
search we found only a few WN. czrrosa in a few scattered areas at
M.T.L. Nephtys caeca, like N. longosetosa, is an arctic species and
has been recorded only occasionally and in small numbers around
the south-western coast of Britain. It is most unlikely that a
permanent colony exists in the Bristol Channel.
Limpert Bay. ‘There is a shingle bank at H.W.M., the rest of the
beach consists of boulders with areas of sand between them,
becoming muddy towards L.W.M. Salinity 27.2%. Nephtys
cirrosa occurs in small numbers in the patches of sand at M.T.L.
Single specimens of Phyllodoce mucosa and the ariciid polychaete
Scoloplos armiger were collected with the Nephtys.
SULLY IsLAND. ‘The beach and fauna were previously described by
Purchon (1948). We have examined only the east side of the
causeway where the substratum consists of pebble and gravel
with some patches of sand. Particularly towards L.W.M. there
is a deposit of mud over the sand. Purchon records Nephtys
462 E. C. HADERLIE AND R. B. CLARK
cirrosa from this area, but we failed to find any. The substratum
contains more silt than is usual on beaches in which WN. cirrosa
occurs, but Sully Island represents the limit of its penetration into
the estuary and so the species may be expected to fluctuate, being
present in some years but absent in others.
PETERSTONE WENTLOOGE. ‘The estuarine mud flats have been
described in detail by Rees (1940) who also has an account of the
macro- and microfauna, and Purchon (1948) gives some additional
information about the fauna. Rees found Nephtys sp., this was
undoubtedly WV. hombergi, but neither Purchon nor we have found
any in later examinations of the beach. Both Rees’ and our own
analysis of the substratum show that it is composed exclusively of
silt and fine sand and that no particles in it are greater than 0.125
mm. in size. ‘This is a finer substratum than WV. hombergi usually
inhabits and we suspect that the previous record of Nephtys from
this beach refers to sporadic and temporary inhabitants. Nereis
diversicolor, Macoma balthica and Hydrobia ulvae are the dominant
members of the fauna, as Rees and Purchon previously noted.
PORTSKEWETT. Beach described by Purchon (1957). The greater
part of the beach is composed of stiff mud with a few large
boulders embedded in it. Nereis diversicolor is abundant in the
mud. No WNephtys were found.
Aust. Estuarine mud flats lie at the foot of Aust cliff and some rock
and debris from the cliff occupy the upper half of the beach. The
mud is thick and densely populated by Nereis diversicolor.
SUGARHOLE SANDS. There is a shingle bank at H.W.M. Estuarine
mud flats extend to L.W.M. and are populated by Werets diversicolor.
Roya Beacu, PortisHEAD. The upper part of the beach consists
of boulders and loose rocks lying at the foot of a low cliff, with
pebble and shingle between them. The lower part of the beach
is composed of clean sand 6-8 ins. deep lying over clay. There is
a considerable deposition of silt over the upper half of the beach
where it collects in pockets between the rocks, especially towards
Battery Point at the west end of the beach. On Battery Point
itself mud fills the gullies between the rocks. The fauna was
described by Purchon (1937), who described Nephtys hombergi as
being numerous in the mud. ‘This is evidently an error of
transcription for Nereis diversicolor, which we found to be abundant
in this environment. The mud is too fine and soft to be colonised
by Nephtys and the only specimens we found were in the sandy
strip at L.W.M.
STUDIES ON THE BIOLOGY OF THE BRISTOL CHANNEL XIX 463
KILKENNY Bay, PorTISHEAD. There is a shingle bank at H.W.M.
and. below this the upper half of the beach is composed of thick,
sticky, estuarine mud dissected by drainage runnels. The lower
half of the beach consists of a layer of sand from # to 2 ins. thick,
over soft mud. At. L.W.M. there is a strip of harder substratum
composed of alternating layers of compacted sand and mud. A
small number of Nephtys hombergi was collected in the lower half
of the beach. They are to be found chiefly in the superficial sandy
layer and quite often lie at the interface between the sand and mud,
though a few penetrate into the soft mud beneath. A few of these
worms were also discovered in the compacted sand and mud at
L.W.M. Nereis diversicolor is common in the upper half of the
beach, but the mud in the lower half appears to be too fluid for
them to construct their burrows and galleries in it and only a few
are to be found there. They are very common under the loose
stones which lie on the mud at the side of the beach near Battery
Point. The amphipod Corophium volutator occurs in moderate
numbers, chiefly in the upper half of the beach. Macoma balthica
is relatively common in the softer mud.
CLEVEDON. A series of rocky reefs run across the beach from
H.W.M. to L.W.M. Between them there are deposits of slimy
mud. ‘There is some gravelly sand below the sea wall at H.W.M.
The fauna at Clevedon is an impoverished one (Bassindale 1943)
and consists mainly of gastropods living on the rocks. We found
no animals in either the mud or the gravel.
WESTON-SUPER-Mare. ‘The upper half of the beach is composed of
fairly clean sand, but lower down an increasingly thick layer of
mud. covers the sand, replacing it at L-.W.M. Nephtys hombergi is
common at the lower tidal level occupied by Arenicola, but does not
extend far into the muddier part of the beach. Macoma balthica is
widely distributed and although reported to be abundant by
Bassindale (1940) empty shells were more numerous than living
animals on 29th October 1958. A few Corophium volutator occur.
BREAN. ‘The beach is sandy for about 400 yards from H.W.M.,
beyond this it becomes muddy. There is a shingle bank at
H.W.M. The following animals are common in the sandy strip
and show a distinct zonation at different tidal levels. Bathy-
poreia pilosa, reaching a maximum density of 5,000 per square
metre, at the top of the beach. Avenicola marina forming a well-
defined belt with a maximum density of 40 per square metre
about 200 yards from H.W.M., Nephtys hombergi with a maximum
density of 84 per square yard overlaps the Arenicola zone, but the
E
464 E. C. HADERLIE AND R. B. CLARK
worms are also found in the muddier sand about 400 yards from
H.W.M. Macoma balthica is abundant (max. density about 250
per square metre) and is widely distributed over the beach. A
few Corophium volutata, two Nereis diversicolor, and some unidenti-
fied nemerteans have also been found there.
STEART. Salinity 25.1%. The entire area of Steart Flats is densely
- populated by Nereis diversicolor, the total population of which must
be incredibly large. At Steart there is a 400 yard zone of Spartina
at H.W.M. and small patches of sand lying over black mud
between this and the mud flats. NV. diversicolor occurs also in the
sand.
STOLFORD. Salinity 25.1%. There is a shingle bank at H.W.M.
and, as at Steart, isolated patches of sand between the shingle
and the mud flats. These contain a small number of Arenicola
marina and. some Nephtys hombergi. \Nephtys does not occur on the
mud flats.
BiuE AncHorR. ‘The beach is composed of coarse sand at H.W.M.
grading into clean sand at L.W.M. and a layer of mud is deposited
on the sand. Salinity 29.4%,. Arenicola marina is common in the
upper half of the beach, WV. cirrosa common at about M.T.L. A
few Nerine cirratulus were also found. No Nephiys hombergi were
found, though Bassindale (1940) records a single specimen.
MINEHEAD. Tongues of shingle run out across the beach, but there
are two or three extensive areas of sand between them. ‘Towards
L.W.M. a thin layer of silt is deposited on the sand. Salinity
28.4%. Nephtys cirrosa very common in association with Arenicola
marina below M.T.L.
SILLERY SANDS, LynMouTH Bay. Most of the beach is rocky, but
a narrow, clean sandy beach is exposed at low water. Salinity
33.6%. No animals were found in the sand.
LynmoutH. Most of the beach is composed of rock and shingle,
but below M.T.L. strips of coarse sand occur, mostly overlying
rock. Salinity 30.6%. No animals were found in the sand.
Compe Martin. A small area of sand is exposed at low water,
otherwise the beach is rocky. Salinity 21.9%. A small number
of Arenicola marina occur in one or two areas. ‘The most numerous
polychaete in the sand is Scolelepis fuliginosa. A small number of
Nephtys cirrosa occur in association with Scolelepis.
STUDIES ON THE BIOLOGY OF THE BRISTOL CHANNEL XIX 465
ILFRACOMBE. The beach consists of reefs running out to L.W.M.,
with strips of coarse gravelly sand between them. Salinity
35.0%. No animals were found in the sand.
DISCUSSION
The lower reaches of estuaries are characterised by a widely
fluctuating salinity and for this reason we have not quoted salinities.
measured at stations upstream from Weston, where salinity fluctua-
tions are slight (Bassindale 1943), nor above Sully Island. This is
not to say that estuarine conditions do not prevail below Weston,
for there is an extensive deposition of the silt that is carried down by
the river as far as Stolford and to a diminishing extent even to
Minehead. ‘The continual deposition of silt and widely varying
salinities render estuaries extremely difficult environments for
animals to colonise, and the fauna is correspondingly impoverished,
though those animals that can survive in them have little competition
and usually occur in enormous numbers.
In the present investigation we have found WNephtys cirrosa to live
only in marine beaches and it penetrates into the Bristol Channel
only as far as Blue Anchor on the Somerset coast and Limpert Bay
on the Welsh side. Nephtys hombergi on the other hand commonly
occurs in the lower reaches of estuaries and has been found in this
situation in the estuaries of the ‘Tamar (Percival 1929, Spooner &.
Moore 1940), Exe (Allen & Todd 1902, Holme 1949), Salcombe
(Allen & Todd 1900), and Mersey (Bassindale 1938) as well as the
Severn estuary. It occurs between Portishead and Stolford and
exceptionally to Blue Anchor, but Stolford probably represents the
seaward limit of its intertidal range. Apart from an isolated record
which presumably refers to this species, at Peterstone Wentlooge,
it does not occur on the Welsh side of the estuary (Swansea, where
a population of NW. hombergi does exist, is so far removed from any
influence of the Severn estuary that it can be ignored in this
discussion). On the Welsh coast there is a sudden change from
estuarine conditions such as occur above Avonmouth on the
Somerset shore, to purely marine conditions and the change takes
place a little west of Sully Island.
Why there should be such a transition zone between estuarine
and marine conditions on the Somerset coast but not on the Welsh
coast can be understood from a consideration of the pattern of
salinity fluctuations, the nature of the substratum, and the con-
figuration of the Channel and estuary.
The tidal and seasonal fluctuations in salinity at Aust is con-
siderable and the salinity may fall to zero at low tide in late winter.
466 E. C. HADERLIE AND R. B. CLARK
At Weston, the tidal fluctuation is about 6%. The change in the
pattern of salinity variation is probably fairly abrupt and is likely
to occur at about Portishead or Avonmouth where the river channel
narrows suddenly (Bassindale 1943a) and it is noteworthy that there
is an abrupt impoverishment of the fauna upstream from Portis-
head. Nephtys hombergi is one of the species that cannot withstand
the harsh salinity conditions that exist above Portishead. It is also
excluded from very muddy beaches, so that it does not occur at
Clevedon or on the Steart Flats because there is no suitable sub-
stratum, even though the salinity variations are tolerable at these
places. Nephtys cirrosa on the other hand cannot withstand a salinity
of less than about 26%, and does not occur in sand that contains
more than about 2% of silt. It is found from Ilfracombe to Blue
Anchor where these conditions are satisfied.
Unfortunately we do not possess a comparable body of informa-
tion about salinity fluctuations on the Welsh coast. But the
salinity fluctuations in Cardiff roads are comparable to those at
Weston (Rees 1939) and there is not likely to be a great difference
between the Welsh and English shores of the Channel in this
respect. The chief difference between the two coast lines is in the
degree of exposure. ‘The Welsh coast, from Swansea Bay to
Limpert Bay and probably to Sully Island is exposed to south-
westerly storms, and there is no deposition of silt on these beaches
which have relatively coarse substratum and are inhabited by
Nephtys cirrosa. Upstream from Sully Island, the northern coast is
protected and suffers a heavy deposition of silt, so much so that NV.
hombergi is excluded from the stretch of the estuary it would normally
occupy.
So heavy and continuous is the deposition of silt in estuaries that
rocky shores are exceptional in them and animals that can live only
on a solid substratum are unreliable indicators of different zones in
the lower reaches of an estuary. ‘Their absence may be dictated by
low or fluctuating salinity or by the quantity of silt in the water, but
is more often due to the simple lack of rocks, as Purchon (1948)
remarked. Sand and mud banks, on the other hand, are always to
be found in estuaries and at the mouths of rivers, and a number of
animals living in them occur with sufficient regularity to serve as
useful indicators of estuarine conditions. Only the commonest
animals need be considered because other species may be rare, not
because of the peculiar conditions in the estuary, but because the
area is outside their normal geographical range. Although Wephiys
caeca and WN. longosetosa are normally found in marine habitats, no
significance can be attached to specimens of these species having
STUDIES ON THE BIOLOGY OF THE BRISTOL CHANNEL XIX 467
been found at Llantwit Major and Port Talbot because the entire
south and west of the British Isles is unsuitable for these arctic
worms.
Bearing these facts in mind, we can now recognise three distinct
zones in the estuary and Channel.
1. Marine zone, where the salinity may be slightly reduced but
does not fluctuate appreciably and where the deposition of
silt is slight. ‘The beaches are of clean sand (or of coarser
substratum, or rock) and are inhabited by species such as
Nerine cirratulus and Nephtys cirrosa. In the Bristol Channel
this zone extends as far as Sully Island and Blue Anchor.
2. ‘Transition zone, where the salinity is reduced and is subject
to moderate seasonal fluctuation but slight tidal fluctuation.
The deposition of silt may be heavy in sheltered places (e.g.
Steart Flats) but beaches are generally composed of muddy
sand, or sand at H.W.M. and M.T.L., grading into mud at
L.W.M. Nephiys hombergi is a characteristic inhabitant of the
muddy sand, Nereis diversicolor is numerous only where the
deposition of silt is considerable. On the Somerset coast,
this zone extends from Blue Anchor to Portishead. There is
no comparable zone on the Welsh coast.
3. Estuarine zone, where tidal and seasonal fluctuations in
salinity are great and silt is deposited. There are no sandy
beaches. The mud flats are densely populated by WNerevs
diversicolor. ‘This zone extends upstream from Sully Island
and Portishead.
Some species are not reliable indicators of estuarine conditions
although they may occur in appreciable numbers. Arenicola marina,
for example, can withstand a considerable reduction in salinity and
occurs in the Baltic and in most estuaries. However it also occurs
on marine beaches and its distribution in estuaries seems to be
dictated by the nature of the substratum.
REFERENCES
Allen, E. J. & Todd, R. A. 1900. The fauna of the Salcombe
estuary. 7. mar. biol. Assoc., U.K., 6, 151-217.
Allen, E. J. & Todd, R. A. 1902. The fauna of the Exe estuary.
J. mar. biol. Assoc., U.K., 6, 295-335.
468 E. C. HADERLIE AND R. B. CLARK
Bassindale, R. 1938. ‘The intertidal fauna of the Mersey estuary.
JF. mar. biol. Assoc., U.K., 23, 83-08.
Bassindale, R. 1940. Studies on the biology of the Bristol Channel.
IV. ‘The invertebrate fauna of the southern shores of the
Bristol Channel and Severn estuary. Proc. Bristol Nat. Soc.,
(4), 9, 143-201.
Bassindale, R. 1943. Studies on the biology of the Bristol Channel.
XI. The physical environment and intertidal fauna of the
southern shores of the Bristol Channel and Severn estuary.
fj. Ecol., 31, 1-29.
Bassindale, R. 1943a. A comparison of the varying salinity con-
ditions of the Tees and Severn estuaries. 7. anim. Ecol., 12,
I-10.
Holme, N. A. 1949. The fauna of sand and mud banks near the
mouth of the Exe estuary. 7. mar. biol. Assoc., U.K., 28, 189-
237.
Percival, E. 1929. A report on the fauna of the estuaries of the
river Tamar and the river Lynher. 7. mar. biol. Assoc., U.K.,
16, 81-108.
Purchon, R. D. 1937. Studies on the biology of the Bristol Channel.
II. An ecological study of the beach and the dock at Portis-
head. Proc. Bristol Nat. Soc., (4), 8, 311-329.
Purchon, R. D. 1948. Studies on the biology of the Bristol Channel.
XVII. The littoral and sublittoral fauna of the northern
shores, near Cardiff. Proc. Bristol Nat. Soc., 27, 285-310.
Purchon, R. D. 1957. Studies on the biology of the Bristol Channel.
XVIII. The marine fauna at five stations on the northern
shores of the Bristol Channel and Severn estuary. Proc.
Bristol Nat. Soc., 29, 213-226.
Rees, C. B. 1939. The plankton in the upper reaches of the Bristol
Channel. 7. mar. biol. Assoc., U.R., 23, 397-425.
Rees, C. B. 1940. A preliminary study of the ecology of a mud flat.
F. mar. biol. Assoc., U. K., 24, 185-199.
Spooner, G. M. & Moore, H. B. 1940. The ecology of the Tamar
estuary. VI. An account of the macrofauna of intertidal
muds. 7. mar. biol. Assoc., U.K., 24, 283-330.
469
mo PLANT, ECOLOGY
Siew HE GORDANO VALLEY
By A. J. Wituis AND R. L. JEFFERIES
INTRODUCTION
HE Gordano Valley, North Somerset, is a low-lying tract of
land extending north-eastwards from Clevedon to the Severn
estuary and the mouth of the River Avon. ‘The valley, in some
respects similar to the extensive flats of the Somerset Levels to the
south-west, is separated from this low ground by a hill ridge east of
Clevedon.
Much of the area carries fen vegetation and has long been known
to support several plants of particular interest ; records of occurrence
have from time to time been given in these PRocEEDINGs. The two
British species of Cyperus, C. fuscus and C’. longus, both rare in this
country, have been reported for the valley, but the latter became
extinct about 1896 (White, 1912). Also almost certainly extinct,
probably as a result of ditch-clearing and obliteration of its site by
the dumping of rubbish, is the great fen sedge, Cladium mariscus, a
plant characteristic of base-rich water, and once extending for about
100 yards on the south side of Walton Moor (White, 1920).
The ecological survey reported here resulted from a study of
the vegetation of the valley from 1954 to 1958, and an attempt is
made to describe the chief plant communities in relation to the
major environmental factors operating. In particular, edaphic and
climatic conditions have been investigated, since water levels, the
mineral content of the water and the nature of the soils in the valley
are all features likely to have considerable influences on the vegeta-
tion.
Attention is largely devoted to the part of the valley lying west of
Clapton Lane ; nearly all the semi-natural vegetation of the valley
is in this area.
TOPOGRAPHY OF THE VALLEY
The Gordano valley is more or less wedge-shaped, and is about
5 miles long and approximately 1 mile wide over much of its length
(Figs. 1 and 2). It is bounded by broken hill ridges which converge
at East Clevedon where there is a narrow gap (just below 50 ft.
O.D.) through which the road runs. The ridge bordering the south
A. J. WILLIS AND R. L. JEFFERIES
470
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THE PLANT ECOLOGY OF THE GORDANO VALLEY 471
side of the valley rises steadily in an easterly direction from approxi-
mately 300 ft. to 400 ft. O.D. Its north-facing concave slope is
steep, especially at the west end of the valley. The north ridge,
however, is lower, and breaks in its continuity occur at Walton-in-
Gordano and at Weston-in-Gordano.
One of the most striking features of the topography of the valley
is the small change in level from Walton Moor to Portishead. Much
of the ground lies just below 20 ft. O.D. and, as shown in Fig. 1, the
gradient is very slight. The contours given in Fig. 1 are derived
largely from a recent survey made by means of a 6-inch levelling
telescope and staff, and related to Ordnance Survey bench-marks.
Distances were determined optically by the use of a telescope
graticule. The contours for 100 and 50 ft. are taken from the
Ordnance Survey 6-inch to 1 mile maps, Somerset Sheets I S.E.,
II S.W., IV N.W. & N.E. and V N.W. The land slopes down from
the head of the valley to just under 16 ft. O.D. in the lowest parts of
Weston Moor ; in this west end of the valley the top soil is of peat.
To the east of Weston Drove the land rises two to three feet and here
the peat is overlain by a layer of blue-grey clay of marine origin.
GEOLOGY
The geology of the valley is complex ; the chief features are shown
in Fig. 2. Palaeozoic rocks, dipping away from the sea, form the
ridges bounding the valley, the north ridge being composed of Old
Red Sandstone overlain by Carboniferous Limestone, whereas the
Clevedon-Bristol ridge to the south consists almost entirely of
Carboniferous Limestone. ‘The Devonian rocks, however, do not
appear on the surface except at a few places, for example near
Portishead. Dolomitic Conglomerate is banked up against these
ridges and is overlain on both sides of the valley by Red Keuper
Marl. Coal Measures, probably of the Pennant series, extend along
the north-facing slope of the south ridge, and were once worked at
Clapton-in-Gordano, giving coal of high sulphur content.
Quaternary deposits are well represented in the valley. Greenly
(1922) and Palmer (1934) recognise aeolian sands in the East
Clevedon gap which they consider to have been deposited there
during a cold phase, but the authors have opposing views as to the
source of this material. On the north slope at Weston-in-Gordano,
marine Pleistocene deposits are present although no exposures are
now visible. The deposits have recently been described by Ap-
Simon and Donovan (1956), who tentatively correlate them with
the “ Main Monastirian ’’ phase of the last Interglacial. Limnic
muds occur below the peat of Weston and Walton Moors and are
A. J. WILLIS AND R. L. JEFFERIES
472
OAV
HLNONNOAV
a
SL4
* CVEHSILUOd
ay
mea
sae Se
| | z
aK
“Vad
Ye
(AVIO) WOIANTTY
TUVA Yada day
SduNsvan TVOO
GNOLSANIT SNOMAZINOGUVO
Azengsq uteaes
Geology of ihe Gordano Valley
yjthe chief geological features are shown in this simplified map.
Fic. 2.
Onl
THE PLANT ECOLOGY OF THE GORDANO VALLEY 473
probably Late-glacial in age, although the main peat-building
phase in the valley did not begin until the Atlantic period of the
Post-glacial sequence. ‘The clay to the east of Weston Drove was
deposited during the Romano-British marine transgression. Allu-
vium of this nature has been recognised in coastal areas of the
Somerset Levels, including Kenn Moor, and in many other coastal
regions of Britain (Godwin, 1943).
DRAINAGE SYSTEM OF THE VALLEY
A number of small streams and springs flow into the valley from
the surrounding hill ridges. Walton Brook (Fig. 1) carries some of
the drainage water from the northern ridge. In the floor of the
valley there is a complex network of rhines, mainly dug at the
beginning of the nineteenth century (Wigan), but at the west end
three main drainage channels are evident, one on each side of the
valley and one in the centre. Further east these large rhines
converge and enter a single main channel which flows into Portis-
head Dock. Provision for deepening and straightening this channel
was made in the Weston Drainage Act of 1815, and now the outlet
is controlled by sluice gates. Prior to 1815 extensive flooding of the
valley sometimes occurred ; there is a record of water from the
Severn being allowed in at the old tide mill near Portishead (Wigan).
Many of the ditches in the central area of the valley are now
blocked with vegetation and consequently the drainage is impeded.
Indeed as there is little change in the level of the valley the drainage
tends to be sluggish even under normal conditions, and unless the
ditches are kept cleared they quickly become choked and fail to
function. In several of the rhines the direction of flow is towards the
head of the valley for some distance before junction with a larger
channel flowing seaward is made. Between Clapton Lane and
Walton Drove, a distance of nearly 3 miles, the drop in water level
in the main drainage channels averages only about 2 ft. 6 inches.
The distribution of the vegetation of the valley is strongly
influenced by the drainage pattern of the area. In view of their
importance, water levels were measured at selected sites over a
period of about a year, and readings of rainfall were also taken.
RAINFALL
A simple rain gauge consisting of a funnel (4 inches diam.) and
receiving vessel was fixed in an open site in a field (17 ft. O.D.)
adjoining Walton Drove (Fig. 1). Readings of precipitation were
taken weekly from October 1956 to May 1958 ; some of these values
are plotted in Fig. 3. Comparison of the readings with those for
474 A. J. WILLIS AND R. L. JEFFERIES
Long Ashton Research Station (162 ft. O.D.), near Bristol, and for
Clarence Park (28 ft. O.D.), Weston-super-Mare, showed that there
was a general agreement in the rainfall figures for all these sites.
The differences are largely attributable to differences in topography
and altitude ; it is of note that some of the biggest variations
occurred during the summer months when thunderstorms were
prevalent. Over the period for which a comparison can be made
(October 29th, 1956—May 25th, 1958) the total rainfall recorded at
Long Ashton was 53.1 inches, at Weston-super-Mare was 44.2
inches and for the Gordano valley was 47.9 inches. The amount of
rainfall recorded for the Gordano valley is clearly intermediate
between that for Weston-super-Mare and for Long Ashton, as
might be expected from its position between these two stations and
the general distribution of rainfall in N. Somerset (Hannell, 1955).
WATER LEVELS IN THE VALLEY
Records of water level at various chosen points in drainage
ditches and in holes dug in the peat were made periodically
throughout the year. The water level was measured at each site by
reference to a fixed marker at a known height. At many of the
sites the water-table was at its highest in February 1957, after heavy
rainfall in December and January, and at its lowest in June 1957
after little rain in April and May.
There is a clear relation between rainfall and water level both in
the drainage channels and in the peat, a fall in rainfall being fairly
quickly followed by a corresponding fall in water level (Fig. 3).
In the rhines the range between the maximum and minimum levels
is fairly small, a reflection of the smallness of the catchment area (c.
6 sq. miles from the head of the valley to Clapton Lane) which the
drainage system serves. In the main drainage channel, where there
is greatest down-cutting of the floor, the range is widest, and the
rise in level after rainfall is shown most quickly. These quicker and
greater changes in level reflect the larger size of the catchment area
served by the main channel ; in addition, drainage from the clay
surface at the east end of the valley is quicker than drainage through
the peat at the west end, the slow percolation of the water here
leading to delayed maxima.
The variation of water level in the peat is, however, larger than
that in the drainage channels, the greatest differences being noted
in a site in Salix carr, far from large rhines (Fig. 3, Site I). This site
was flooded during the winter, whereas during the summer the water
table was nearly a yard below the surface. Drainage into and out
of this area is slow and the low level of the water-table in summer
THE PLANT ECOLOGY OF THE GORDANO VALLEY 475
SITE 1 SITE
Sine Il SITE TV
fall (inches)
<— Rain
&
Nn
Felt)
ys
«
N. 'D.
SOE M ATM I. dy A. Ae
Fic. 3. The relationship between rainfall, water level and pH.
Data are presented for Nov. 1956—Oct. 1957, weekly amounts of rainfall
being shown in histogram form at the bottom of the figure. Ground level is
indicated by —-—--: , pH _by O- -O and water level by @ @. The positions of
the four sites are given in Fig. 1. Site I is in Salix carr, Site II in a large rhine
east of Weston Drove, and Sites III and IV in one of the central enclosures of the
valley. The high level of water in the rhine (Site II) in February after a period
of heavy rainfall is shown. In winter the water table in the peat (Sites I, III and
IV) was at or near the surface but fell to a low level in June after low rainfall in
April—June. Variations in pH are greatest where flooding occurs (Site I).
476 A. J. WILLIS AND R. L. JEFFERIES
seems largely a result of the transpiration losses from the trees and
bushes (chiefly Salix atrocinerea) during a period of low rainfall.
The valley has not been extensively flooded for a number of
years, although in many of the peaty areas the water table during
the winter is only a few inches below the surface (Fig. 3, Sites III
and IV). ‘The two ditches bordering the valley are capable of
taking a considerable amount of the hill drainage water, and flooding
of the central parts of the valley rarely, if ever, occurs.
VARIATION OF pH
In view of the important influence of the hydrogen-ion concen-
tration of the drainage water and of the soil water on the vegetation,
measurements of pH were made periodically. Samples of water
were taken from many of the drainage ditches, and, in selected sites,
samples of peat were collected from just below the surface. The
peat samples were extracted with an equal volume of distilled water,
and pH measurements were made at a glass electrode.
The drainage water in nearly all of the rhines is about neutral.
The water of Walton Brook, draining from the Carboniferous
Limestone ridge above Walton-in-Gordano, was consistently
alkaline in reaction, varying from pH 7.4 to 8.3 at different times of
the year. Measurements from many of the rhines in the floor of the
valley ranged from pH 6.5 to 7.3. Only one stream carrying water
which was consistently somewhat acidic (pH 5.7 to 6.9) is known to
enter the valley. ‘This stream lies to the west of Clapton-in-
Gordano and flows from the Coal Measure rocks.
The water held in the surface layers of the peat varies in pH from
about 4.5 to 7.2. At most of the sites studied, variation in pH at the
same site at different times of the year is fairly small (+ 0.5 pH
unit), but there are large variations from site to site. In the central
parts of the valley, far from drainage channels, and not subject to
flooding, the pH values often lie between 4.5 and 5.0 throughout
the year (Fig. 3, Site IIT). However, at the extreme west end of the
valley, and near the sides, the soil water is neutral or even slightly
alkaline in reaction. Even in the central area, the water held by the
peat immediately adjoining the drainage ditches is about neutral,
but there is a fairly marked uniform pH gradient away from the
ditches, conditions becoming more and more acidic the further from
the drainage channels. At the sites fairly near the rhines the largest
pH variations are found (Fig. 3, Sites I and IV), since the soil water
tends to become acidic in summer, but in winter, being near the
ditches, the sites may be flooded with calcareous water draining
from the surrounding hills. Base-rich drainage water is, however,
THE PLANT ECOLOGY OF THE GORDANO VALLEY 477
largely confined to the rhines, extensive flooding being rare, as
indicated above ; moreover, the acidic peat in the centre of the
moor is fairly well buffered, and penetration of small quantities
of calcareous water does not lead to a large change in pH. However,
although the pH in the surface layers of the peat away from ditches
may be about 4.5, conditions are less acid in the deeper layers. In
one such site samples at the surface gave a pH of 4.8, and at a
depth of 1 metre of 6.5, there being a gradual change down the
profile.
MINERAL CONTENT OF THE DRAINAGE WATER
AND PEAT |
As much of the water entering the valley is derived from rainfall
on the surrounding hill ridges which are composed mainly of
Carboniferous Limestone, the water is likely to be fairly calcareous.
An attempt was made to gain rough estimates of the content of
calcium and other minerals in the water of the rhines, since the base
status of the water has important influences on the vegetation
(Tansley, 1949 ; Pearsall, 1950). Estimates of the levels of calcium,
magnesium, potassium and iron in the water were made, by the
methods described by Morgan (1941), at various sites.
In all the drainage ditches the water was found to have a moder-
ately high calcium content, usually between 0.01—0.005N (10-5 m.
eq. /l.). Figures for magnesium were 0.001—0.0005N (I-0.5 m.
eq. /l.), for iron were 0.0003N (0.3 m.eq./l.) and for potassium
0.0005N (0.5 m.eq. /l.) or less. It may be concluded that the water
was of fairly high base-status, and it is of interest that the drainage
water from the peat moor at Sharpham on the Somerset Levels,
where the vegetation is of ‘* mixed fen ”’, gave fairly similar analyses.
In many parts of the valley the peat was also of high base status.
A series of samples of surface peats taken for analysis gave values of
ash content, expressed as a percentage of the dry weight, ranging
from about 20% to 30%. It is probable that some of these high
values arise from the addition of cinders to the surface of the peat
in some parts. However, the ash content of the peat throughout a
profile from a depth of 1 foot to g feet was between 10% and 12%.
These figures are in striking contrast to those for bog or Sphagnum
peat ; asample of the latter from near Shapwick, Somerset, gave an
ash content of 1.0 %, and the peat from the Callunetum of Thornton
Mire, Yorks, an ash content averaging 3.7% (Harley and Yemm,
1942). It seems likely that the high values of the ash content of the
surface peat at Gordano may partly result fromwastage of the peat asa
consequence of the lowering of the water table by artificial drainage.
478 A. J. WILLIS AND R. L. JEFFERIES
From the above results it is clear that base-rich water enters the
valley, and drains through the network of rhines. Conditions of
high mineral supply and a high water table therefore prevail
throughout much of the area, and have led to the development of ©
fen vegetation. Only in parts far from the rhines is there a tendency
for the vegetation to depend to an appreciable extent on direct
_ rainfall for its water supply, and for acid conditions to arise as a
result of the decay of plant material. However, even here the water
is doubtless too rich in minerals and the climate not sufficiently wet
for raised bog to develop.
THE VEGETATION OF THE VALLEY
The natural vegetation of the wet, peaty areas is that of fen, a
variety of communities of eutrophic plants being present. In some
parts conditions tend to be acidic and the calcium content of the
soil water lower, and here plants such as Eriophorum angustifolium
occur. Much of the valley has, however, been brought under
cultivation at some time, and human influences must have affected
the vegetation considerably. White (1912, p. 15) records that peat
has here been “ dug for fuel within my recollection’; there is,
however, no evidence of peat-cutting on an appreciable scale. In
the drier areas at the sides of the valley many of the enclosures are
mown and grazed and several have been limed. Some of the peat
land in the centre of the valley has been ploughed in the past
(plough lines are visible in aerial photographs, taken in 1946, in
areas now vegetated) ; according to local information a number of
enclosures were ploughed during the 1914-18 war. Recently some
of this land, dominated by the purple moor-grass, Molinia caerulea,
has again been brought under the plough. As already mentioned,
cinders have been scattered over certain areas of the peat ; in some
places a fairly thick layer can be distinguished, and in others the
cinders are sparser and now intimately mixed with the top few
inches of the peat.
Studies of the vegetation in many sites in the valley were made on a
quantitative basis, in order that the chief communities could be
recognised, and their composition assessed. For this purpose,
frames of 12 inches x 6 inches were employed ; they were thrown at
random in the various areas and the plants within the frame listed,
and their relative bulk (volume) scored subjectively out of a total of
10, an allowance being made for bare ground on an area basis.
Where the bulk for a species was less than 1, it was scored as a trace,
and arbitrarily 10 traces were taken as equalling 1. The method of
scoring is the same as that described by Willis et al. (1959). In any
THE PLANT ECOLOGY OF THE GORDANO VALLEY
479
one area 15 frames were thrown and the results averaged and
expressed on a percentage basis.
In Table 1 the composition of the vegetation in nine areas is
TasBLeE 1. The composition of the chief plant communities.
see text (pp. 478-80).
Fen
meadows
Site XS ees 1G,
Bare ground I
Agrostis canina 24
Holcus lanatus 54
Carex panicea 2
Carex nigra +
Juncus subnodulosus
Centaurea nigra
Filipendula ulmaria
Molinia caerulea :
Lolium perenne 8
Juncus articulatus
Eleocharis palustris
Juncus effusus
Anthoxanthum odoratum
Cirsium palustre
Juncus conglomeratus
Carex demissa
Galium palustre
Lotus uliginosus
Plantago lanceolata
Potentilla erecta
Sieglingia decumbens
Angelica sylvestris
Ranunculus acris +
Mentha aquatica
Cirsium dissectum
Ranunculus flammula
Hydrocotyle vulgaris
Acrocladium cuspidatum +
Taraxacum officinale agg. }
2
easton:
Taraxacum paludosum agg.
Glyceria fluitans
Ajuga reptans =r
Lythrum salicaria
Luzula multiflora
Equisetum arvense
Festuca pratensis 3
Cynosurus cristatus +
Festuca rubra :
Trifolium repens I
Phragmites communis
Juncus inflexus
Leontodon leysseri
Carex hostiana
Prunella vulgaris
Eupatorium cannabinum
Carex distans
Solanum dulcamara :
Other species I
F
SOV OO ©
mi.
oo N
. step Stes) wowwonun:
~+t++ttood-
ee ae ee
+.
++.
Semi-
natural
Sen
D iE
4 7
ae
390 34
Cure yy
12)
19 I
iat
Se 124
+ I
; I
a a
ae 3
I :
I I
=
2 I
ar 3)
oie
3
ate
as
ae
© Or
a cue deg
{
are
6
4
2 2
Molinietum Salix
b+.
Jp ttttt. +.
40
carr
29
36
3
AS Ege! Maley ete Roel in eae CTO iel
tar aS
For explanation
Pasture
on clay
I
I
14
13
7
(B%s) 70 Pa ee
* Pe NN
I2
480 A. J. WILLIS AND R. L. JEFFERIES
listed. ‘These areas have been selected from a much larger number
where vegetation records were made, as best representing the main
types of community in the valley. The positions of the sites A-I are
given in Fig. 1, from which it can be seen that nearly all of the areas
listed are at about 16-17 ft. O.D. (area I is approximately 2 ft.
higher). Where the contribution to the total bulk of the vegetation
by any one species is less than 0.5 %, this is shown in the table by +.
‘The records were made in July 1957. Nomenclature follows that of
Clapham, Tutin and Warburg (1952).
Apart from the aquatic vegetation of the rhines, there are five
chief types of community which may be recognised, although many
intermediates can be found. The main types are as follows :
Fen meadows
Semi-natural fen
Molinietum
Carr
Pasture on clay
A apie co
The first four types of vegetation are developed on the peat, the
fen meadows being subject to grazing and mowing, whereas the
semi-natural fen areas are only little affected by human influences.
However, some areas previously used for agriculture are reverting
to semi-natural vegetation, and others, previously unexploited, may
be brought under agriculture so that no sharp boundary between the
types can be drawn. Near the junction of Walton and Weston
Moors a community dominated by Molinia has developed, and in
several areas Salix carr is present. In some of the communities
included here as semi-natural fen, there is some indication that
progression to carr is possible.
The chief types of vegetation are described in turn, but no attempt
is made here to list the plants of the various communities exhaustively.
1. Fen Meadows
The fen meadows are situated at the margin of the valley and at
the west end. As already mentioned, moist, base-rich conditions
prevail and many of the plants occurring are characteristic of
eutrophic vegetation. In some parts ofthe valley where the meadows
are more acid in their soil reaction there is a change in the flora and
some species which tend to be oligotrophic are also present.
In the fen meadows agricultural practices have a large influence
on the composition of the communities. In some fields grasses make
up a high percentage of the total vegetation (Table 1, A). Agrostis
canina, Holcus lanatus, Festuca pratensis, Lolium perenne and Ciynosurus
THE PLANT ECOLOGY OF THE GORDANO VALLEY 481
cristatus are often abundant while Alopecurus geniculatus and Bromus
mollis sometimes occur here but are unrepresented elsewhere in the
peat flora of the valley. Correspondingly the low values in site A
for the Carices and the relatively sparse number of other species in
comparison with other fen meadow sites is interesting. At various
time intervals these fields are sprayed with selective weed-killers and
regular spraying has been continuous for two years. Observations
showed that Carex hostiana, C’. panicea, Equisetum palustre, Lychnis
flos-cucult and Senecio aquaticus jacobaea were adversely affected by
this treatment, and there was a tendency for an increase of plants
which are unaffected, such as the grasses.
In other fields where grazing is heavy, but weed-killers are not
applied, a characteristic flora has developed. Many of the plants are
small and tufted, such as Isolepis setacea, Carex demissa and Juncus
articulatus (Table 1, site B). These plants appear to be able to
withstand trampling, often colonising the hoof marks made in the
peat. Juncus bufonius is especially prevalent in this situation. In
one enclosure Eleocharis uniglumts is found.
The effect of grazing on the larger Junci is striking. Both 7-
conglomeratus and 7. subnodulosus are eaten by cattle whereas the
tougher 7. inflexus is avoided and is plentiful in some damp pasture
sites. Also grazed is 7. effusus var. compactus which is fairly abundant
in one area. Where Juncus tussocks are degenerating, Holcus
lanatus invades the centre of the decayed tussock. Its good growth
here may depend on the protection from grazing afforded by the
remains of the tussock or the relatively drier situation in the raised
tussock. Certainly during dry years Holcus lanatus and Anthoxanthum
odoratum appear to be more abundant in the valley than during wet
years. These fen fields contain some typical eutrophic species
which withstand the effects of cattle grazing and trampling. Such
plants include Carex panicea, Juncus subnodulosus, Filipendula ulmaria,
Anagallis tenella and Samolus valerandi. ‘The last two plants have not
been found elsewhere in the valley and are probably excluded from
the semi-natural fen areas because of the tall vigorous growth of the
herbage.
Some fields to the north of the central area have a lower pH than
the typical base-rich fen meadows of the valley and the flora is
somewhat different (Table 1, C). Sedges (Carex migra and C.
panicea) may constitute a high proportion of the vegetation, and
some species occur (Carex echinata, Potentilla erecta) which are more
usually associated with oligotrophic communities.
In addition to the plants listed in ‘Table 1, or mentioned above,
the following were recorded in the frames :
482 A. J. WILLIS AND R. L. JEFFERIES
SITE A Sire B SITE C
Carex hirta Bellis perennis Agrostis stolonifera
Potentilla anserina Briza media Briza media
Cerastium vulgatum Carex pulicaris
Senecio aquaticus x Rumex acetosa
jacobaea Amblystegium serpens
Trifolium pratense Brachythecium rutabulum
Near the banks of one of the rhines bordering fen meadows in
Walton Moor, Cyperus fuscus still persists, although apparently in
very small quantity. When this plant was first discovered in the
valley by S. J. Coley in 1900, it was reported to occur in great
abundance along two rhines, extending along them quite a mile
(Bucknall, Fry and White, 1901). There was a luxuriant crop also
in August 1921 (White, 1922). Doubtless the plant has suffered
considerably from ditch clearance since then. It now grows chiefly
on the peat removed from the rhines and piled on their banks, and
is often associated with Isolepis cernua (locally plentiful), Juncus
bufonius and Ff. articulatus, together with larger plants often colonising
the banks of rhines, such as Mentha aquatica, Veronica beccabunga,
Myosotis palustris ssp. palustris, Cirsium palustre, Nasturtium officinale,
Triglochin palustris, Polygonum persicaria and P. hydropiper. Along
ditches of two of the fen meadows on the north side of the valley
Veronica scutellata is found.
Senecio jacobaea grows on the drier, higher parts of several of the
grazed fen meadows. With S. aquaticus, present in the wetter areas,
it has given rise to a hybrid population, many of the plants showing
characters of leaf, inflorescence, involucre and cypsela intermediate
between those of the species. ‘The hybrids are plentiful in a number
of the fields.
2, Semi-natural Fen
These semi-natural areas contain a typical eutrophic fen vegeta-
tion although in places where the pH is lower there is a tendency
towards a more oligotrophic community, as in the fen meadows.
Plants such as Centaurea migra, Carex panicea, Angelica sylvestris,
Filipendula ulmaria, Eupatorium cannabinum and Juncus subnodulosus are
plentiful (Table 1, D), and in one area Thalictrum flavum is present
as an isolated colony. There is a succession in the flowering of
these showy, tall, herbaceous fen plants beginning with Crrsium
dissectum in late spring. Rather less frequently encountered in the
semi-natural fen vegetation of the valley, but present in one or more
sites, are Carex hostiana, Galium uliginosum, Hypericum tetrapterum, Iris
pseudacorus, Orchis praetermissa, Platanthera bifolia, Scutellaria galericu-
lata, Stachys palustris, Succisa pratensis, Valeriana dioica, V. officinalis,
Vicia cracca and Dryopteris spinulosa. Carex elata, although destroyed
THE PLANT ECOLOGY OF THE GORDANO VALLEY 483
in one area of Weston Moor by raising and levelling of the ground,
has recently been found in another locality nearby (Sandwith and
Sandwith, 1957). The Royal fern, Osmunda regalis, now extinct in
the valley (White, 1912), was very probably once a member of the
semi-natural fen vegetation. ‘The absence of the small, tufted species
in the fen meadows is most noticeable ; they are probably excluded
as a result of competition with the thickly-growing, taller plants.
In the more acid places, Agrostis canina, Carex echinata and C. nigra
are present (Table 1, E). ‘These plants are mainly situated in the
centres of the fields and not around the edges where a eutrophic
community is found, and calcareous water from the ditches pene-
trates the peat. Where Carex echinata and C. nigra grow there is a
decrease in characteristic eutrophic species, such as Filipendula
ulmaria, Carex panicea and Juncus subnodulosus. Other plants, usually
indicative of acid conditions, which occur in the valley are Juncus
acutiflorus, Carex ovalis and Eriophorum vaginatum, the latter represented.
by only a single tuft in Weston Moor (Sandwith and Sandwith,
1957). In some areas of semi-natural fen, Agrostis canina var.
canina, Carex disticha and C. mgra dominate almost completely,
forming fairly pure stands. Where small depressions occur in the
peat surface, Juncus conglomeratus, Hydrocotyle vulgaris and Mentha
aquatica are frequent, and are perhaps favoured by the damper
conditions.
As well as the plants given in Table 1, and mentioned above, the
following were present in the frames :
Sire D SITE E
Carex flacca Achillea ptarmica
Carex pulicaris Carex flacca
Brachythecium rutabulum
The contrast in vegetation of a semi-natural fen area with that of
a fen meadow may be illustrated by studies from two adjoining
fields. The ground level and pH of the fields are very similar so that
a direct comparison can be made. ‘The species listed for each field
are those which are rare or absent in the other field.
Semi-natural fen field Grazed fen meadow field
Centaurea nigra Ajuga reptans
Eupatorium cannabinum Carex demissa
Filipendula ulmaria Cerastium vulgatum
Luzula multiflora Juncus articulatus
Molinia caerulea Juncus bufonius
Plantago lanceolata Potentilla anserina
Ranunculus acris
Trifolium dubium
Trifolium pratense
The absence of the tall herbaceous fen plants in the grazed fen
meadow is striking, whereas here low-growing tufted and creeping
484 A. J. WILLIS AND R. L. JEFFERIES
plants thrive which are excluded from the semi-natural fen vegeta-
tion.
3. Molinietum*
In the central region of the valley, where acid conditions prevail,
Molina caerulea is dominant over a considerable area. ‘The pH of
the soil where this grass is found varies from about 4.1 to 6.3, but
where this plant is flourishing the soil reaction is usually more acid
than pH 5.5. ‘The less acid sites are occasionally flooded by cal-
careous water. ;
The tussocks of Molinia are fairly uniform in height (55-70 cm.)
and are of a large size. Where the grass dominates, the raised
tussocks are rarely, if ever, flooded, although in the winter the water
table is near the surface of the peat. The occurrence of Molinia in
these areas is in keeping with the observations of Jefferies (1915)
that the plant succeeds under conditions of mild acidity where the
water does not stagnate.
The vegetation of a site where Molinia is a clear dominant is given
in Table 1, F, and where it is accompanied by a fairly high propor-
tion of other plants in Table 1, G. The latter site, recently used for
rough grazing, has probably been much influenced by ploughing in
the past, and the Molinia appears to have invaded the area from the
surrounding fields.
The number of species associated with Molinia is fairly small in
comparison with those of other communities developed on the peat.
An important factor here may be the large amount of litter produced
by the slow decay of the tussocks. Frequently the degenerating
tussocks are colonised by Holcus lanatus and Carex nigra: As well as
these species, Agrostis canina, Potentilla erecta, Luzula multiflora and
Eriophorum angustifolium are fairly common in Molinietum. Bryo-
phytes are not plentiful ; Brachythecium rutabulum occurs and the
liverwort Calypogeia fissa was found in site F and also in site G where
it was growing with Lophocolea bidentata. Other plants of these two
sites, not listed in Table 1, are Achillea ptarmica, Equisetum palustre,
Carex disticha and Rumex acetosa.
Towards the ditches Molinia becomes sparser. In these areas
which are more nearly neutral, and more subject to flooding, tall
fen plants such as Filipendula ulmaria and the eutrophic Juncus
subnodulosus form a somewhat mixed community.
The Molinietum is of particular interest with regard to the
succession of natural communities in the valley. Study of the plant
*Since this paper was prepared much of the Molinietum area has been con-
siderably altered ; many of the Molinia tussocks have been cleared to make the
land useful agriculturally.
|\oceiaag
THE PLANT ECOLOGY OF THE GORDANO VALLEY 485
remains in the thick peat of Walton and Weston Moors indicates
that at no time in the past was there a phase of raised bog develop-
ment ; in this feature the Gordano valley differs from a number of
areas of the Somerset Levels which have been investigated (Godwin,
1943 ; Clapham and Godwin, 1948). Molinietum is well known as
a stage in the hydrosere (‘Tansley, 1949), succeeding reedswamp or
fen vegetation and often giving way finally to raised bog in which
Sphagnum is frequently an important component. At Gordano the
succession to Molinietum is limited to the central, more acid parts of
the valley, and progression to raised bog does not take place, as
indicated earlier, probably because the precipitation is too low and
the incoming water is too calcareous, none of the peat surface being
sufficiently elevated to be completely out of its influence. Both
Sphagnum sp. and Aulacomnium palustre have been reported for the
valley (Davies, 1956), but it has not been possible to confirm these
records. Certainly in no area has vegetation typical of a raised bog
been encountered.
4. Carr 7
A relatively small area of the valley is occupied by well-developed
carr. Most of it appears to be of fairly recent origin, but remains in
the peat indicate that in the past alder carr was probably extensive,
especially at the margins of the valley. Near Walton Drove there
are now plantations of poplars and of pines.
Two strips of carr in an area of semi-natural vegetation are
composed almost entirely of Salix atrocinerea, which is capable of
regenerating itself fairly freely. In winter the peat of these areas
becomes very waterlogged, but in summer the water table is low
compared with that in other parts of the valley (Fig. 3, Site I). In
sites where there is no graizng (Table 1, H), the ground flora is
fairly rich and contains a number of species in common with the
carr of Wicken Fen (Tansley, 1949). The ground flora of grazed
areas in the Salix carr shows several differences ; it is dominated by
Agrostis canina, has fewer of the tall herbaceous fen plants and often
a fairly high proportion of the peat surface is bare. Ferns are
uncommon here, as elsewhere in the valley ; Athyrium filix-femina
and Dryopteris filix-mas are present in small quantity. ‘Towards the
edges of the carr, where it merges with the semi-natural fen vegeta-
tion, plants such as Mentha aquatica, Eriophorum angustifolium, Juncus
subnodulosus and 7. conglomeratus are frequent where the water table
is high.
In one part of Walton Moor there is a fairly open stretch of carr,
a variety of woody plants occurring. Betula pubescens is abundant ;
486 A. J. WILLIS AND R. L. JEFFERIES
Salix atrocinerea is also fairly plentiful. Less common are Alnus
glutinosa, Quercus robur, Frangula alnus, Salix caprea, Crataegus monogyna,
Fraxinus excelsior and Viburnum opulus. In some parts of the carr
Lonicera periclymenum occurs and Rubi locally form a fairly dense
undergrowth ; present are Rubus fruticosus L., including the rate R.
sulcatus Vest which was recorded for Walton Moor in 1918 by Miss
Roper (White, 1920), and R. caesius.
Much of the area now dominated by herbaceous fen plants
appears to be at a level where the development of carr is possible.
The critical level for shrub establishment is approximately that of the
winter water table (Godwin and Bharucha, 1932) ; it has already
been shown that much of the peat surface is above normal flood
limits. However, the effects of occasional grazing in the valley may
be sufficient to prevent extensive carr development ; it is of note
that bushes of Salix atrocinerea, Crataegus monogyna and of other shrubs
are sparsely scattered throughout areas dominated by herbaceous
plants. Carr development is also much retarded by burning ;
small fires are not uncommon in the dry vegetation and seem to
affect the shrubs more adversely than many of the herbaceous plants.
5. Pasture on Clay
East of Weston Drove, the peat is overlain by Romano-British
alluvium. This marine blue-grey clay supports vegetation which is
very different from that of the peat surface to the west. Nearly all
this clay land is used for grazing or mowing, and grasses, chiefly
Agrostis canina, Holcus lanatus and Lolium perenne, dominate.
The list for site I in Table 1 shows that many of the plants of the
pasture developed on the clay are represented also in the peat flora.
Growing on the clay, however, but apparently absent from the peat,
are Carex contigua, Luzula campestris, Hordeum secalinum and. Serratula
tinctoria. On the other hand, many of the plants found on the peat,
including tall herbaceous fen species and a number of the fen meadow
plants, are absent on the clay. However, low-growing tufted,
rosette and creeping forms are common here. As well as the plants
mentioned above, and given in Table 1, the following were recorded.
at site I:
Achillea millefolium Lysimachia nummularia
Bellis perennis Phleum pratense
Bromus mollis Potentilla reptans
Carex hirta Pulicaria dysenterica
Cerastium vulgatum Senecio aquaticus x jacobaea
Daucus carota Succisa pratensis
Equisetum palustre Trifolium pratense
Lathyrvs pratensis
THE PLANT ECOLOGY OF THE GORDANO VALLEY 487
THE VEGETATION OF THE RHINES
A rich and varied flora, chiefly of eutrophic plants, is found in the
extensive network of drainage ditches. The flow of water is never
very fast, even under conditions of flood, and the rhines soon become
choked with a dense growth of vegetation. Many of the ditches are
cleared regularly, but recolonisation quickly takes place.
In ditches where water is flowing at a moderate rate, plants such
as Alisma plantago-aquatica, Sparganium ramosum ssp. ramosum, Glyceria
fluitans, Juncus subnodulosus, Callitriche obtusangula and Phragmites
communis are common. Phragmites, and in some ditches Phalaris
arundinacea and Typha latifolia, often form a dense stand, and retard
water flow considerably. Vigorous growth of the rhizome of
Phragmites is frequently seen where this plant is spreading into a
cleared rhine ; it also extends some distance from the rhines into
the enclosures, particularly in the rather low-lying areas. Lemna
minor often forms a fairly complete mat on the water surface, and
Ranunculus trichophyllus ssp. droueti is plentiful in several of the rhines.
Baldellia ranunculoides, Ceratophyllum demersum, FElodea canadensis,
Myriophyllum verticillatum, Potamogeton crispus, Sagittarta sagitiifolia and
Sparganium simplex are present in one or more of the ditches. Also
recorded for the rhines of Walton Moor are Potamogeton coloratus
(White, 1912), P. pusillus (panormitanus) (White, 1925) and Calli-
triche intermedia (White, 1912) ; Myrniophyllum alterniflorum and
Montia fontana (White, 1912) are given for ditches below Weston-
in-Gordano. Ranunculus lingua has been found on at least two
occasions in the valley (White, 1918), but has not been recorded in
recent years. Charophytes are fairly plentiful; Chara contrana,
Tolypella glomerata (White, 1923), Chara delicatula (White, 1926) and
C’. vulgaris var. refracta (Sandwith and Sandwith, 1958), as well as C.
aculeolata, C. globularis, C. hispida and C’. vulgaris var. vulgaris, are
known or have been recorded for the rhines of the valley.
Where drainage is retarded by partial blocking, several plants in
addition to those already mentioned are frequently found. Carex
pseudocyperus, Apium nodiflorum and Eleocharis palustris are not un-
common, and in one rhine in Weston Moor Eleogiton fluitans is
abundant. Hippuris vulgaris also grows nearby. Along the edges of
some of the rhines Myosoton aquaticum occurs.
In certain areas of the valley the ditches have become almost
completely blocked and silted up. Characteristic of these ditches
is a flora including Carex rostrata, C. acutiformis, C. pseudocyperus, C.
remota and Juncus conglomeratus. Also found in such sites are Juncus
effusus, Schoenoplectus tabernaemontam, Stellaria alsine and Nasturtium
officinale.
488 A. J. WILLIS AND R. L. JEFFERIES
Many of the plants of the ditches, for example Juncus subnodulo-
sus, typically occur where the mineral content is fairly high and
where the reaction of the water is neutral or alkaline ; it is only in
the centre of the valley, where the ditches are blocked to an appreci-
able extent and conditions may become slightly acidic, that plants
tending to be somewhat oligotrophic, such as Carex rostrata, are
- found.
The small channels running across the fields on clay east of
Weston Drove have a different vegetation from that of the rhines
in the peat. Plants common in these ditches are Caltha palusiris,
Cardamine pratensis, Carex acutiformis and. C. otrubae.
VEGETATION OF RUBBISH TIPS
Two areas of the valley, one in Walton Moor and one in Weston
Moor, are used for the dumping of rubbish. ‘The level is being
raised considerably, the surface of the tips being some 6-8 feet higher
that the original peat surface.
The semi-natural fen vegetation is buried and obliterated in these
two areas, and many weed species are colonising the older parts of
the dumps. No detailed study of the changing plant population of
this artificial habitat has been made. Of the many plants now
growing on the tips, Cichorium intybus, Bromus [| Anisantha| madnitensis,
Phalaris canariensis, Poa compressa and Vulpia myuros may be mentioned.
Several areas have been seeded and lucerne grown.
SUMMARY
The Gordano valley is a wedge-shaped, low-lying area with a very
slight gradient. Drainage through the complex network of rhines is
consequently rather sluggish. ‘The water table is high and the
fluctuation in level fairly small, changes in level being directly
related to rainfall. The catchment area of the valley is not very
great and extensive flooding of the low ground rarely occurs.
Deep fen peat is present in the floor of the valley, and west of
Weston Drove peat is at the surface. East of Weston Drove,
however, the peat is overlain by Romano-British marine clay.
Water entering the valley from the surrounding hill ridges of
Carboniferous Limestone is alkaline, but in most of the rhines is
about neutral in reaction although it is fairly calcareous. The high
water table and calcareous water have resulted in the development
of fen vegetation. At the head and margins of the valley much of the
peat land is used for grazing, and many of the plants of the fen
meadows are small and tufted, such as Carex demissa, Juncus bufonius
and 7. articulatus. Semi-natural fen vegetation occupies slightly
THE PLANT ECOLOGY OF THE GORDANO VALLEY 489
lower ground, and here tall herbaceous plants, many of them well-
known to be eutrophic, dominate. Among the most widespread are
Juncus subnodulosus, Carex panicea, Centaurea nigra, Angelica sylvestris,
Filipendula ulmaria and Eupatorium cannabinum. In the central parts
of the valley, where conditions tend to become acidic, particularly
away from the large rhines where the calcareous water does not
readily penetrate, Molinietum has developed, and some plants (e.g.
Carex echinata, Eriophorum angustifolium) which are usually members
of oligotrophic communities occur. However, there are no signs
that succession to raised bog is taking place. Carr, chiefly domina-
ted by Salix atrocinerea, is not now as extensive in the valley as it was
in the past, judging by remains in the peat which show alder to be
abundant.
The rhines contain a varied and interesting flora ; where the
water is flowing moderately, eutrophic aquatic plants are plentiful,
but in the smaller ditches, which have become blocked, other plants,
such as Carex rostrata, thrive.
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
We are much indebted to Professor E. W. Yemm for extensive
assistance in the survey of the valley, and for many helpful dis-
cussions. For the provision of rainfall data we wish to thank Mr.
G. E. Clothier of Long Ashton Research Station and Dr. D. Mc-
Gowan of Weston-super-Mare. ‘To Miss N. P. Teear our thanks are
due for information concerning pH and the mineral content of the
peat and drainage water, and to Miss M. Jefferies for some of the
readings of rainfall.
Weare grateful to Sir Charles Miles for permitting access to many
parts of the valley, to Mr. E. Nelmes for assistance in the determina-
tion of Carices, to Dr. E. M. Rosser and Mr. P. M. Benoit for help
with the determination of Senecios, and to Mr. N. Y. Sandwith for
valuable information concerning the occurrence of some of the plants.
REFERENCES
ApSimon, A. M. & Donovan, D. T. (1956). Marine Pleistocene
deposits in the Vale of Gordano, Somerset. Proc. Univ. Bristol
Spelaeological Soc. 7, 130-6.
Bucknall, C., Fry, D. & White, J. W. (1901). Notes on Bristol
Plants. 7. Bot. 39, 91-3.
Clapham, A. R. & Godwin, H. (1948). Studies of the Post-glacial
History of British Vegetation. VIII. Swamping Surfaces in
Peats of the Somerset Levels. Phil. Trans. Roy. Soc. B, 233,
233-49.
490 A. J. WILLIS AND R. L. JEFFERIES
Clapham, A. R., Tutin, T. G. & Warburg, E. F. (1952). Flora of
the British Isles. Cambridge.
Davies, E. W. (1956). The Ecology and Distribution of Carex flava
and its Allies in the British Isles. Bot. Not. 109, 50-74.
Godwin, H. (1943). Coastal Peat Beds of the British Isles and North
Sea. 7. Ecol. 31, 199-247.
Godwin, H. & Bharucha, F. R. (1932). Studies in the Ecology of
Wicken Fen. II. The Fen Water Table and its Control of
Plant Communities. Ibid. 20, 157-91.
Greenly, E. (1922). An Aeolian Pleistocene Deposit at Clevedon.
Geol. Mag. 59, 365-76 and 414-21.
Hannell, F. G. (1955). “*‘ Climate”? in Bristol and its adjoining
Counties. Chapter 3, 47-65. Bristol.
Harley, J. L. & Yemm, E. W. (1942). Ecological Aspects of Peat
Accumulation. I. Thornton Mire, Yorkshire. 7. Ecol. 30,
17-56.
Jefferies, T. A. (1915). Ecology of the Purple Heath Grass (Molinia
caerulea). Ibid. 3, 93-109.
Morgan, M. F. (1941). Chemical soil diagnosis by the universal
soil testing system. Bull. Conn. agric. Exp. Sta. No. 450.
Palmer, L. S. (1934). Some Pleistocene Breccias near the Severn
Estuary. Proc. Geol. Ass. 45, 145-61.
Pearsall, W. H. (1950). Mountains and Moorlands. London.
Sandwith, C. I. & Sandwith, N. Y. (1957). Bristol Botany in 1956.
Proc. Bristol Nat. Soc. 29, 179-86.
Sandwith, C. I. & Sandwith, N. Y. (1958). Bristol Botany in 1957.
Ibid. 29, 343-352.
Tansley, A. G. (1949). The British Islands and ther Vegetation.
Cambridge.
White, J. W. (1912). ‘The Flora of Bristol. Bristol.
White, J. W. (1918). Notes supplemental to the Flora of Bristol.
J. Bot. 56, 11-8.
White, J. W. (1920). Bristol Botany in 1918. Proc. Bristol Nat.
Soc. 5, 88-91.
White, J. W. (1922). Bristol Botany in 1920 and 1921. Ibid. 5,
197-201.
White, J. W. (1923). Bristol Botany in 1922. Ibid. 5, 263-7.
White, J. W. (1925). Bristol Botany in 1924. Ibid. 6, 173-8.
White, J. W. (1926). Bristol Botany in 1925. Jbid. 6, 232-6.
Wigan, E. (Not dated). The Tale of Gordano. ‘Taunton.
Willis, A. J., Folkes, B. F., Hope-Simpson, J. F. & Yemm, E. W.
(1959). Braunton Burrows: the dune system and its vegeta-
tion. Part I. 7. Ecol. 47, 1-24.
491
mer OGCURRENCE OF GALENA
al FLAX BOUR TON
by Linpa CARLTON
N the summer of 1956, a deposit of galena was found during
operations at the new Stancombe Quarry, Flax Bourton (Hobbs
Quarries Limited) (Grid Reference ST 505684). This is in the
Clifton Down Limestone, which at this point is overlain by Trias
marl.
There is in the Carboniferous Limestone here a series of parallel
fissures, running East-West, mostly about one foot wide and infilled
with calcite. Some also contain pink barytes in which are embedded
small crystals of galena. However, one fissure which was exposed
during 1957, across what was then the working face of the quarry,
was about 3—4-ft. wide at the top, narrowing slightly with depth,
and infilled with iron-rich clay which contained very contorted
mineral veins consisting of bands of barytes with small galena
crystals and calcite, both stained with iron oxides. ‘There were also
appreciable quantities of manganese oxides. Behind (i.e. to the
South of) this clay seam was one of red quartz.
The main pocket of lead ore was in the line of the clay seam but
beyond the eastern end of the quarry face, so that only the top of it
has been seen. It extended downwards and to the South.
About a ton of high grade galena was removed from this pocket
in lumps of up to 24-in. diameter. These were contaminated, usually
on the outside, by barytes and were embedded, with bands of large
calcite crystals, in clay. ‘The site since has again been covered by
rubble and has not so far been re-exposed.
Two large pieces of rock showing the mineralisation of the main
vein are on show outside the quarry offices, and a fine specimen of
the galena is in the City Museum. A map showing the quarry and
the approximate positions of fissures and the pocket of galena is also
in the Museum.
Analysis by gravimetric, colorimetric and spectrographic methods
gave the following results :—
Galena from the pocket (5 samples)—
Antimony ranging from 2ntOn7
Silver 100 to 200 p.p.m.
Zinc ye eeesmaialll crystals of blende irregularly
distributed in the galena.
492 LINDA CARLTON
Galena from vein (small crystals) (One sample only)—
Antimony an he oe less than .05 %
pllyers fae - 40 p.p.m.
X-ray diffraction Seen oP vein material taken with a Guinier
focussing camera showed that lead sulphate, lead carbonate and
silica (quartz) were present in minor quantities with the lead
sulphide and barium sulphate.
I should like to express my thanks to Hobbs Quarries Limited for
access to the site and for samples of galena, and to Shell Research
Limited and the Bristol College of Technology, for laboratory
facilities.
\
‘TL FLV Id AN OLd XIX Xe ACA SN de oOrd
493
Moet PORARY EXPOSURE OF
RHAETIC AND LOWER LIAS
ae DRY OS PAG TO RY,
KEYNSHAM
By C. E. Legse, F. S. Ross and W. F. VERNON
N the summer of 1958 good sections were revealed in excavations
for a new factory block at Somerdale. These showed the White
Lias limestones to be arched up at three separate points above
the blue clays containing the Cotham Marble. The structures did
not appear to be linear in character, but rather cone-shaped, for
they could be seen to be of limited lateral extent and could not be
traced across the excavation. ‘The main structure occurred on the
south-east wall 150 ft. from its southern end, and an incipient
one 150 ft. from its northern end. Near the middle of the south-
west wall an upward curvature of the bed showed an arc of 4 ft.
radius. It seems that the structure must be due to local disturbances
produced by pressure adjustment in the mobile clays at the base
of the succession. The largest of these structures, which affects the
beds from the Cotham Marble to the Sun Bed and above (about
20 ft. thick) is illustrated in Plate II. Tutcher (1923) observed
similar structures in the railway cutting a quarter of a mile to the
south-west and one is illustrated in a plate accompanying his paper.
Possibly the phenomenon is the same as that referred to as valley-
bulges and discussed by S. E. Hollingworth, J. H. Taylor and
G. A. Kellaway (1944).
REFERENCES
- Tutcher, J. W. (1923). Some recent exposures of the Lias
(Sinemurian and Hettangian) and Rhaetic about Keynsham.
Proc. Bristol Nat. Soc. (4), 5, 268-278.
S. E. Hollingworth, J. H. Taylor and G. A. Kellaway. (1944).
Large Scale Superficial Structures in the Northamptonshire
Ironstone Field. Quart. Fourn. Geol. Soc. 100, 1-35.
Se
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PRESIDENTS
Tee SANDERS ke) 2, 18601876
_ HENRY E. FRIPP EA ~ es ep a 46— 80
_ GEORGE FORSTER BURDER | RE a ¥. a 80— 83
— JOHN BEDDOE .._.. Bits, eae ace 83— 84
Professor WILLIAM RAMSAY | UN a Oi Rigen 6,4 ae
_ Rev. THOMAS HINCKS Bs, et it ete dt gc ot ae 87— go
] Professor C. LLOYD MORGAN bie a oy a go— 93
Professor ADOLPH LEIPNER me Be ean o og" od
_ Professor SYDNEY YOUNG _.. of ine H 3. 94— 96
= E SWAYNE .... RMSE ah Reon aol at 97— 98
i Professor C. LLOYD MORGAN as ae aN oN 99—1900
_ ARTHUR B. PROWSE .. Ne MD Le GY a IgOI— 03
eC. K. RUDGE .. ad si ie oo ma ee 04— 06
JAMES W. WHITE ts oe es i “e fe 0o7— 09
GG. MUNRO SMITH i) a an ua Pie gh 10— 12
_ Miss I. M. ROPER if Bante ws ae a a 13— 16
G. C. GRIFFITHS a i! “i Pe emt Cop ti:
_ ERNEST (later Sir Ernest) H. ‘COOK a8 af xe Ig— QI
_ H. WOMERSLEY ie a Me = ane aie 22 any
_ Professor O. V. DARBISHIRE .. a is Me oy 24— 26
_ JAMES RAFTER am a ae we ‘ae ie 27— 29
A. L. FLEMMING ie ws = oy des a; 30
Jj. W. TUTCHER .. bs i 2 a as ue SI aa
F. S. WALLIS “ iy an “ Ss a aM 33
Professor O. V. DARBISHIRE .. op i vs se 34.
G. E. J. McMURTRIE wh a ie a Ps 35— 37
Professor MACGREGOR SKENE oe Ar me sig 38— 41
H. TETLEY ay : Sas oa mt ua ait 42— 44
Sir LEWIS L. FERMOR| ui ws ut “a Fe 45— 47
F. W. EVENS ne ee an mB e ne ae 48— 49
H. H. DAVIS eS, Pe Wy si ae Bs 50— 51
Professor W. F. WHITTARD Pe ae i os E. 52 53
J. H. SAVORY ‘ Ay ete ae a a 54— 55
RE ee Oe a ee 56— 57
Miss M.H. ROGERS .. ws ae si bs fs 58—
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Vol. VI. Pt. 1.4923) O.P., Pt. 3 (tasq ie (1925), |
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Vol. VII. Pt. 1 (1928), Pt. 2 Gogg Bee = eqs 4
Pt. 4 (1931), Pt. 5 (1932), Pt. 6 (1933), Pt. 7 (1934).
Vol. VIII. Pt. 1 (1935), Pt. 2 (1936), Pe 3 (1037) 5am
Pt. 4 (1938). 7 4
Vol. IX. Pt. 1 (1939), Pt. 2 (1940), Pt. 3 (1940) Pre
(1942), Pt. 5 (1943). .
At the end of Vol. IX publication in series ceased and the ©
next volume, the twenty-seventh since publication started, is be
numbered X XVII. x
“Vol. XXVIII. Pt..1 (1944), Pt. 2 (ro4gy ee @ olka
Pt. 4 (1947), Pt. 5 (1948). q
Vol. XXVIII. Pt. 1 (1949), Pt. 2 (1950), Pt. 3 (1951),
Pt. 4 (1952), Pt. 5 (1953). | .
Vol. XXIX. Pt. 1 (1954), Pt. 2 (1955), Pt. 3 (1956) \
Pt. 4 (1957).
In addition, limited stocks of some parts of earlier volumes are ~
held, viz. 2nd Series, 1866-1872, and New Series (3rd), Vols. I ¢
to X, 1873-1903. Particulars of parts available can be obtained ~
from the Honorary Librarian. ;
THe CARBONIFEROUs LIMESTONE SERIES (AVONIAN) OF THE
Avon GORGE %
by the late Arthur Vaughan, revised (1936) by the late S. H.
Reynolds ; reprinted from Proc. 1935. 4
A Revisep List OF THE Birps OF THE BrisTou. DIsTRicT
by H. H. Davis, reprinted from Proc., 1947. a
Copies of the above are available at 5 /— each (Gost. extra) from q
Hon. Lib. as above. 3
THe PLEsiosAURS IN THE City MusrEum, BrisTou
by W. E. Swinton, reprinted from Proc., 1947, price 2 /-,
may be obtained from the City Museum, Bristol.
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